Care
The vibrantly coloured Royal Gramma makes an excellent addition to the reef aquarium. In the wild it is found in close proximity to rocky overhangs, vertical reef walls, and ledges, where it stays near to a blot hole sometimes at a 45 degree angle or even upside down, so that its belly faces the substratum. Ideally, the aquarium will contain plenty of live rock, which is aquascaped in such a way that there are some areas with sheltered rocky overhangs (do make sure all structures are completely stable though). Royal Grammas are generally peaceful, although they will defend a preferred resting spot with vigour. In larger systems (6ft+) with an abundance of live rock/visual barriers, several specimens may be kept together if introduced simultaneously; wherever possible try to obtain one large individual and several smaller ones. Tankmates should be of a peaceful nature, but should not include similar species such as other Grammas or Dottybacks. Do ensure the tank has tight fitting coverslides, as these fish are expert jumpers.
Feeding
Offer a variety of small meaty foods such as Mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, plankton, chopped krill/mussel/cockle/clam etc. Some specimens will take prepared foods such as marine flake and pellets.
Breeding
Royal Grammas have been spawned in captivity. The male will construct a nest by bringing pieces of macroalgae into his chosen pre-cleaned cave. He will then entice a female into the nest by spreading his fins and quivering his body at her, then swimming towards the den, repeating this until she follows him inside. Once the eggs are released/fertilised, the female leaves the spawning site, with the male remaining in the cave to guard them.
