Basslet- Harlequin

About the Harlequin Basslet

The Harlequin Basslet (Serranus tigrinus) is a striking and uncommon basslet featuring bold tiger-like stripes and spots across a cream to pale orange body. This beautiful fish brings unique patterning and peaceful energy to reef aquariums. Often called the "Tiger Basslet," this hardy species is prized by collectors for its distinctive appearance and excellent temperament in community reef settings.

Why Reef Keepers Love This Fish

• Unique Patterning: Bold tiger stripes and spots create a distinctive harlequin appearance unlike any other basslet
• Peaceful Temperament: Docile and compatible with most community fish and invertebrates
• Reef-Safe: Won't harm corals or invertebrates, making it perfect for mixed reef systems
• Hardy & Adaptable: Disease-resistant and forgiving of minor water parameter fluctuations
• Active Swimmer: Constantly exploring rockwork and open water areas throughout the aquarium
• Uncommon Species: Less commonly available than standard basslets, making it a unique addition
• Beginner-Friendly: Easy to feed and care for, accepts prepared foods readily

Care Requirements

Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Temperament: Peaceful
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Diet: Carnivore—readily accepts frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, high-quality pellets, and other meaty preparations. Feed 1-2 times daily.
Max Size: 4-5 inches

Ideal Water Parameters

Temperature: 72-78°F
pH: 8.1-8.4
Salinity: 1.023-1.025 SG
Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
Nitrate: <20 ppm

Tank Placement & Behavior

Harlequin Basslets are active swimmers that utilize all levels of the aquarium, from rockwork crevices to mid-water areas. They're peaceful with other fish and can be kept with a wide variety of tank mates, including other peaceful basslets, gobies, blennies, and even smaller fish. Their calm demeanor makes them excellent community fish that won't harass tank mates.

They appreciate plenty of live rock with caves and overhangs where they can retreat if startled, but once established, they become bold and visible throughout the day. Their unique tiger-striped patterning creates beautiful visual interest and stands out against colorful corals and solid-colored fish species.

What to Expect

Your Harlequin Basslet will arrive healthy and ready to acclimate. They may be shy initially but will quickly become confident, active members of your reef community. These fish are easy to feed, accepting frozen and prepared foods from day one. Their distinctive striped patterning becomes more pronounced under quality reef lighting, and the contrast intensifies as they mature. With their peaceful nature, hardiness, and unique appearance, Harlequin Basslets are excellent additions to community reef tanks and make wonderful conversation pieces for collectors seeking something different.