Species Description…

Scientific Name: Serranus tortugarum

Common Name: Chalk Bass

Species Group: Sea Bass

Habitat: Reef Safe with Caution

Care Level: Intermediate

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet Type: Carnivore

Role in Aquarium: Community Fish

Max Fish Length: 3 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 30 (gallons)

Native Range: Western Atlantic, including the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico

Serranus Tortugarum - The Chalk Bass

Serranus Tortugarum (The Chalk Bass)

Native to the Western Atlantic, particularly in the Caribbean Sea, where it inhabits rocky reefs and coral slopes.
Recognized for its vibrant blue and orange coloration, with a sleek body and distinctive horizontal striping.
A small, peaceful species that thrives in community reef tanks.
Highly social and often seen schooling with others of its kind.
Best suited for aquariums with live rock formations, plenty of swimming space, and stable water conditions.

Carnivorous, primarily feeding on plankton, small crustaceans, and marine worms in the wild.
Thrives on a diet of frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and high-quality marine pellets.
Readily accepts prepared foods and benefits from frequent small feedings throughout the day.
Should be fed at least twice daily to maintain energy levels and encourage natural foraging behavior.
A varied diet helps enhance coloration and supports overall health.

Prefers reef-associated environments with rock structures, caves, and open swimming areas.
Often found in small groups near coral heads or resting on rocky ledges.
Aquarium setups should include live rock to create natural hiding spots and encourage schooling behavior.
Requires stable water parameters and efficient filtration to maintain optimal water quality.
Providing a well-lit environment supports active swimming and social interactions.

Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) for maintaining health and activity.
Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
Requires regular water changes and consistent maintenance to prevent waste buildup.
Reef-safe and does not pose a threat to corals or invertebrates.
Providing a stable environment with adequate swimming space encourages natural schooling behavior.

Highly social and best kept in small groups to exhibit natural behavior.
Compatible with clownfish, wrasses, gobies, and other peaceful reef-safe species.
Should not be housed with overly aggressive fish that may intimidate or outcompete it for food.
Best suited for a well-balanced reef aquarium with non-aggressive tankmates.
Providing multiple hiding areas and open swimming zones ensures a harmonious environment.

An active and peaceful species that enjoys swimming in open water and resting on rocks.
Frequently observed darting between rock formations and interacting with tankmates.
More confident in a well-established aquarium with a stable social structure.
Providing a structured environment with plenty of space encourages schooling behavior.
Over time, it may become accustomed to its caretaker and actively respond during feeding times.