Chromis
Chromis are a group of small, colorful fish belonging to the family Pomacentridae. They are popular in the reefkeeping hobby due to their hardy nature, vibrant colors, and peaceful demeanor. Chromis are schooling fish, meaning they thrive in groups, which can create a dynamic and lively display in an aquarium. One of the most commonly kept species is the Chromis viridis, known for its shimmering blue-green hue.
Chromis are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists. They require a well-established tank with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots. A tank size of at least 120 liter (30 gallons) is recommended for a small school. Chromis are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods, including flake, pellet, frozen, and live foods. Regular feeding with a balanced diet will help maintain their vibrant colors and overall health.
In terms of compatibility, Chromis are generally peaceful and can coexist with a wide range of other reef-safe fish, corals, and invertebrates. However, it's important to monitor their interactions with more aggressive tank mates, as they can become stressed or bullied. Providing ample hiding spots and maintaining good water quality are crucial for their well-being.
Scientifically, Chromis are interesting due to their social behavior and schooling dynamics. In the wild, they often form large schools around coral reefs, which provides them with protection from predators and opportunities for feeding. Their schooling behavior is not only a survival strategy but also a fascinating aspect to observe in a home aquarium.
Overall, Chromis are a delightful addition to any reef tank, bringing both beauty and activity to the aquatic environment.
- Common name: Yellow Axil ChromisScientific name: Chromis abrupta
- Common name: Midget chromisScientific name: Chromis acares
- Common name: Agile chromisScientific name: Chromis agilis
- Common name: White-spotted chromisScientific name: Chromis albomaculata
- Common name: Allen's chromisScientific name: Chromis alleni
- Common name: Yellow-speckled chromisScientific name: Chromis alpha
- Common name: Ambon chromisScientific name: Chromis amboinensis
- Common name: yellow chromisScientific name: Chromis analis
- Common name: Black-axil chromisScientific name: Chromis atripectoralis
- Common name: Blue Green Reef ChromisScientific name: Chromis bami
- Common name: blue chromisScientific name: Chromis cyanea
- Common name: Deep-reef pullerScientific name: Chromis delta
- Common name: bicolor damselfishScientific name: Chromis dimidiata
- Common name: yellowtail reeffishScientific name: Chromis enchrysura
- Common name: Arabian chromisScientific name: Chromis flavaxilla
- Common name: Malayan chromisScientific name: Chromis flavipectoralis
- Common name: yellow demoiselleScientific name: Chromis fumea
- Common name: Hawaiian bicolor chromisScientific name: Chromis hanui
- Common name: Olive damselfishScientific name: Chromis insolata
- Common name: Pacific Half-and-half ChromisScientific name: Chromis iomelas
- Common name: Yellow ChromisScientific name: Chromis jubauna
- Common name: Scaly chromisScientific name: Chromis lepidolepis
- Common name: White-tailed chromisScientific name: Chromis leucura
- Common name: Damsel fishScientific name: Chromis limbata
- Common name: lined chromisScientific name: Chromis lineata
- Common name: Lubbock's chromisScientific name: Chromis lubbocki
- Common name: bicolor chromisScientific name: Chromis margaritifer
- Common name: Bigeye chromisScientific name: Chromis mirationis
- Common name: brown chromisScientific name: Chromis multilineata
- Common name: Yellowback pullerScientific name: Chromis nitida
- Common name: Okinawa chromisScientific name: Chromis okamurai
- Common name: Hawaiian chromisScientific name: Chromis ovalis
- Common name: Pemba chromisScientific name: Chromis pembae
- Common name: Blacksmith chromisScientific name: Chromis punctipinnis
- Common name: Black-bar chromisScientific name: Chromis retrofasciata
- Common name: Philippines chromisScientific name: Chromis scotochiloptera
- Common name: purple reeffishScientific name: Chromis scotti
- Common name: Ternate chromisScientific name: Chromis ternatensis
- Common name: Trispot chromisScientific name: Chromis trialpha
- Common name: Vanderbilt's chromisScientific name: Chromis vanderbilti
- Common name: Threespot chromisScientific name: Chromis verater
- Common name: blue-green chromisScientific name: Chromis viridis
- Common name: Yellow-axil chromisScientific name: Chromis xanthochira
- Common name: yellowfin chromisScientific name: Chromis xanthopterygia
- Common name: Black chromisScientific name: Chromis xanthura
- Common name: Buff chromisScientific name: Chromis xutha