How to Identify Royal Gramma

To identify Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Distinctive bicolored pattern: anterior half is bright purple to magenta, sharply transitioning to a vivid yellow posterior half. A small black spot is present on the anterior dorsal fin, and a black stripe often runs from the snout through the eye.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Sharp bicolored demarcation (purple/magenta to yellow), Small black spot on the anterior dorsal fin, Black stripe through the eye, Relatively small size, typically reaching 6-8 cm (2.4-3.1 inches) in total length

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 12-13 spines and 9-10 soft rays. The anterior portion is often darker with a prominent black spot.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is typically yellow, rounded to slightly emarginate.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are clear to yellowish, relatively small.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are elongated and often purple, extending beyond the anal fin origin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration

   The most defining feature is the sharp, bicolored pattern: purple/magenta anterior and yellow posterior. No other common reef fish shares this exact pattern.

2. 2

   Black Spot on Dorsal Fin

   A small, distinct black spot is present on the anterior portion of the dorsal fin, which helps differentiate it from some similar-looking species or color variants.

3. 3

   Swimming Behavior

   Often observed swimming upside down under ledges or in caves, a characteristic behavior of Gramma species.

4. 4

   Size and Shape

   Small, elongated body, typically not exceeding 8 cm (3.1 inches).

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