Serran Arlequin (Serranus tigrinus) - Harlequin Basslet

The Harlequin Basslet ( Serranus tigrinus ), also known as the Harlequin Basslet, is a small, colorful, and fascinating marine fish with a distinctive striped pattern. This hardy and peaceful basslet is an excellent choice for community reef aquariums.

Distinctive appearance: This magnificent grouper has a creamy-white body adorned with irregular vertical brown-orange bands, creating a unique tiger-like pattern. Its fins are decorated with complementary spots and stripes, giving it a characteristic harlequin appearance.

Main features:

• Unique and attractive harlequin tiger pattern
• Adult size: 8-10 cm
• Peaceful and shy temperament
• Simultaneous hermaphrodite (possesses both male and female organs)
• Active mainly at dusk and at night
• Robust and suitable for beginner to intermediate aquarists

Needs and maintenance:

• Minimum volume: 150 liters
• Temperature: 24-27°C
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Salinity: 1.023-1.025
• Diet: Carnivore - readily accepts mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, frozen krill, and high-quality pellets and flakes. Feed 1-2 times daily
• Aquarium: Provide plenty of hiding places with live rock and crevices. Appreciates shaded areas for retreat.
• Behavior: Peaceful and timid, often stays near hiding places. Becomes more active once acclimated.

Compatibility:

• In reef aquariums: Fully compatible with corals and invertebrates. Does not disturb corals.
• Compatibility: Excellent for peaceful community aquariums. Compatible with other non-aggressive fish. May be intimidated by very active or aggressive fish.
• Prey: Can hunt very small ornamental shrimp (less than 1 cm). Compatible with adult shrimp

Acclimation advice: This fish is shy at first. Allow a few days for it to adapt before it comes out regularly. Once settled, it will become more confident and visible.

Add the tiger-striped charm of the Harlequin Serran to your reef aquarium!