Chalk bass
Serranus tortugarum
FishSaltwater
- Care level
- Easy
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Reef safe
- Yes
- Recommended tank
- 150 L
- Maximum size
- 8 cm
- Temperature
- 24–27 °C
- pH
- 8–8.4
- Group size
- ≥ 3
- Diet
- Carnivore
Care at a glance
The chalk bass from the Caribbean is lavender blue with orange stripes and stays small for a sea bass. It is one of the few in its group that can be kept in small shoals without things getting out of hand.
It is remarkably hardy and eats almost anything, which makes it a rewarding fish for a reef tank with peaceful residents. Do cover the tank, as it jumps easily, and do not house it with very small shrimp; those fit its mouth exactly.
Related species
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Values are mainstream hobbyist guidance, not gospel — always watch what your own animals need.