Common name: Porehead blenny
General information
The Peppermint Basslet, scientifically known as Labrisomus multiporosus, is a small and colorful fish that is a lesser-known gem in the reef aquarium hobby. This species is part of the Labrisomidae family and is appreciated for its vibrant red and white peppermint-like stripes, which make it a visually appealing addition to any marine aquarium.
Despite its beauty, the Peppermint Basslet is not as commonly kept as some other basslets due to its relative rarity and specific care requirements. It is a hardy species once acclimated but should be introduced to a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and hunting.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 10 cm (4″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers complex rockwork
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys small crustaceans
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at small fish
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyLabrisomid BlenniesLabrisomidae
- GenusSavannah BlennyLabrisomus
- SpeciesPorehead blennyLabrisomus multiporosus Hubbs, 1953
Care
Peppermint Basslets require a stable and mature marine aquarium with ample hiding places. They are carnivorous and thrive on a diet of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. It's important to maintain high water quality and stable parameters to keep these fish healthy.
Due to their small size and peaceful nature, they are suitable for smaller reef tanks but can also be kept in larger community setups. However, they may become territorial with other small, similarly shaped fish, so it's advisable to introduce them last to the aquarium or keep them singly.
Reproduction
Little is known about the breeding habits of Peppermint Basslets in the wild or in captivity. They are presumed to be egg-layers with external fertilization, similar to other basslets. Breeding them in the home aquarium is not commonly reported, and their reproductive behaviors remain a subject of interest for marine biologists and dedicated hobbyists.
Habitat
Labrisomus multiporosus is found in the tropical Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Bahamas to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. They typically inhabit coral reefs and rocky substrates, often seen darting among crevices and overhangs in search of food. In the wild, they are usually found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 60 feet.