Lantern Basslet

 Quick Care Facts

• Care Level: Easy   • Temperament: Semi-aggressive   • Maximum Size: 4"
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons   • Water Conditions: 72-80° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
• Diet: Carnivore   • Origin: Tropical Western Atlantic
• Family: Serranidae   • Species: Basslets   • Aquarium Type: Reef Compatible

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Lantern Bass are a very active and colorful species of "Dwarf Seabass" related to groupers and their larger sea bass cousins. Originating in the Tropical Western Atlantic, the Lantern Bass is often found in rocky areas among weedy marine algae where they hunt for small fish, shrimp, and planktonic life. Similar to Chalk Bass, Lantern Bass are extremely hardy as well as small in size, making them perfect choices for beginners and "nano" size aquariums.

Lantern Bass are relatively peaceful and multiple specimens can coexist well if introduced simultaneously; they aren't usually aggressive with other tank mates, but will often defend their favorite places from new additions until everybody settles in. Lantern Bass are a popular species that are readily available through online retailers and can often be found locally.

Lantern Bass are an active species that should be kept in an aquarium that is no less than 30 gallons. They should be provided with plenty of live rock for shelter and territory as well as fine sand to crushed coral substrate. They can be heavy eaters for such a small sized species and in addition to quality biological and mechanical filtration, they will appreciate the water quality that a protein skimmer will help provide.

Lantern Bass are considered to be reef safe and will not harm any coral species, but they may eat tiny fish and shrimp that they can fit into their mouths. Tank mates can consist of multiple specimens if added at the same time and they will usually get along with other species that aren't too aggressive.

Lantern Bass are carnivores that mainly eat small fish, shrimp and plankton in their natural environment. They should be fed a variety of meaty food items such as live, frozen, freeze-dried, and vitamin enriched brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, chopped krill, chopped silver sides, and other prepared seafood. They will also accept small pellets and flake foods for carnivores as well as omnivores. Feed 2 times per day.