Liopropoma are a group secretive fishes which makes them elusive and uncommonly found in the aquarium trade. Collette’s Reef Basslet (Liopropoma collettei) is a species that closely resembles the Pinstripe Reef Basslet (Liopropoma susumi), however the former has a more pinkish body with fewer but thicker stripes. Even though Liopropoma collettei is a widespread species ranging from Hawaii, PNG and the Philippines, it is very seldom seen in shipments of reef aquarium fish.
Unlike its other prettier cousins such as Liopropoma carmabi and Lrubre rubre from the Caribbean which are targeted for collection, L. collettei and L. susumi are not often targeted and are usually caught whenever divers encounter them. This could be another reason why they’re not seen often despite their wide range. The one shown above was imported as a pair from Indonesia by Crazy Aquarium in Bangkok last week. Liopropoma species like the L. collettei above make wonderful specimens for a deep reef set up or biotope tank. If you ever find yourself considering to add one to a suitable reef tank, do not hesitate. Liopropoma make wonderful additions.
