Candy Basslet

Also known as the Candy Basslet or Liopropoma carmabi

The Candy Basslet is one of the most vibrant and sought-after marine fish in the aquarium hobby. Native to the tropical western Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea around the Bahamas, Florida Keys, and northern South America, this exquisitely colored basslet displays brilliant orange, lavender, and red hues that make it a standout in reef tanks. Although it is peaceful toward most tank mates and relatively hardy, the Candy Basslet is rare and highly prized due to its deep-water origins and striking appearance.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Liopropoma carmabi
• Common Names: Candy Basslet, Candy Bass
• Adult Size: Up to about 2.5 inches (6.5 cm) in aquariums
• Lifespan: Around 5 to 8 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful but may be territorial toward its own kind
• Reef Compatibility: Generally reef safe but may eat small ornamental shrimp
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum (30 gallons or more recommended)
• Experience Level: Intermediate due to rarity and shy nature

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat:
Candy Basslets inhabit deep reef environments in the western Atlantic. They are typically found in rocky crevices, overhangs, and shaded reef zones at depths from around 15 to 70 meters where they can shelter and hunt small prey.

Tank Environment:

• Provide abundant live rock with caves and crevices for hiding
• Moderate to low lighting to mimic deeper reef conditions
• Stable water quality with gentle to moderate flow
• A mature, well-established aquarium with minimal aggression
• Visual barriers and secluded areas for shy behavior

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72 to 78°F (22 to 26°C)
• Salinity: 1.020 to 1.025 specific gravity
• pH: 8.1 to 8.4
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <10 ppm with good maintenance

Diet & Feeding

Recommended Foods:

• High quality frozen mysis shrimp and brine shrimp
• Small pieces of krill, copepods, and zooplankton
• Carnivore pellets or marine flakes as supplemental nutrition
• Occasional live foods to encourage natural feeding responses

Feeding Schedule:
Feed once or twice daily with small portions that are consumed within a few minutes. A varied meal plan supports health and vibrant coloration.

Behavior & Compatibility

Tank Mates:
Compatible with peaceful species such as gobies, blennies, small wrasses, and clownfish. Use caution with shrimp or very small crustaceans, which may be seen as food. Avoid aggressive or large fish that could intimidate or outcompete it.

Social Behavior:
Candy Basslets are generally peaceful and shy. They prefer to live singly unless in a very large tank with ample hiding spaces, as they can become territorial with their own kind or similar species.

Color & Development

Coloration:
This species displays alternating horizontal bands of orange and lavender, separated by red lines along its elongated body. Some individuals also show distinctive black markings near the fins.

Color Intensity:
Brilliant color is maintained with stable water conditions and proper nutrition. Stress or poor water quality can dull colors.

Size & Growth:
Candy Basslets typically reach up to about 2.5 inches in a well-maintained aquarium. Growth is steady with nutritious food and a proper environment.

Why Choose Candy Basslet?

Candy Basslets are prized for their extraordinary coloration and peaceful personality in a reef setting. They are an excellent focal fish for nano or larger reef aquariums with stable water quality and plenty of live rock structure. Their rarity and radiant pattern make them a cherished addition for dedicated marine aquarists seeking a standout species that thrives in a mature, carefully maintained aquarium.