Description
The Chalk Bass originates from the tropical waters of the Caribbean and other areas of the Western Atlantic, however the specimens sold here are captive-bred ORA. It has a pearly white body with hints of orange, pink, and purple. The top of the fish is lined with a refined rust brown color. The fish displays bold white, tiger like stripes that have a glimmer of blue. It may not be the most eye-catching fish, but on closer inspection it is quite stunning. It can be kept in an aquarium as small as 30 gallons. Provide it plenty of live rock filled with holes, crevasses, caves to hide in. This fish does well alone but prefers to be kept in a group. If you want to keep a group, be sure to add them all the same time. Otherwise, you will have issues with aggression. When it comes to tank mates, this fish gets a long well and is generally peaceful. The Chalk Bass will not harm corals, but it may eat small ornamental crustaceans when it gets bigger. This fish is very hardy and will tolerate a lot of aquarium conditions.
Care Requirements
Purchase Size: 1 – 1.25″
Feeding: Carnivore. Feed live foods for a healthier, more vibrant fish.
Water Parameters: ~78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef safe: Yes
Color: White body with hints of light orange, purple, and pink with vertical light blue stripes. The top is a rust brown color.
More Information
There are several benefits to buying captive-bred Chalk Bass over wild-caught ones. Despite already being hardy, a captive-bred Chalk Bass is even hardier and more resilient to disease. It is also far less likely to carry diseases. Along with that, captive-bred specimens are more accustomed to aquarium life and better able to handle the stress of shipping. By purchasing captive-bred fish, you are helping the ocean by discouraging the wild-caught trade and supporting the captive-bred industry. This makes our beautiful hobby more sustainable.
