Caribbean Deepwater Cave Basslet

The Caribbean Deepwater Cave Basslet, also known as the “Purple Basslet,” is a stunning deep-sea fish found in the Caribbean Sea. It belongs to the Grammatidae family and is known for its vibrant purple coloration and unique physical features.

The Purple Basslet has a deep, compressed body with a rounded head and large eyes. Its dorsal fin is long and stretches nearly the entire length of its body, while its anal fin is short and rounded. The fish is usually a bright purple color, with darker markings on its dorsal and anal fins.

This species is typically found in deep waters ranging from 250 to 900 feet, where it inhabits caves, overhangs, and crevices. It is a solitary species, and adults can grow up to 3 inches in length. The Purple Basslet is also a carnivorous fish, feeding on a variety of small crustaceans and other small fishes.

Although not commonly kept in aquariums, the Purple Basslet is highly sought after by collectors due to its striking appearance. However, due to its deep-sea habitat and specialized needs, it is a challenging fish to keep in captivity. As with all wild-caught fish, it is important to ensure that any Purple Basslet in captivity is obtained from sustainable sources and that its specific needs are met in terms of diet, water quality, and environment.