Common name: Arabian chromis

Scientific name: Chromis flavaxilla Randall, 1994
Arabian chromis (Chromis flavaxilla) macro of small light yellow color fish living in a coral.
Yellowaxil pullers (Chromis flavaxilla) in the Red Sea, EgyptShoal of Lyretail Anthias, Arabian Chromis, and Half-and-Half Chromis in Red Sea

General information

The Sunshine Chromis, Chromis flavaxilla, is a small and peaceful marine fish that is a member of the damselfish family. It is known for its vibrant yellow axil spot, which contrasts beautifully with its pale blue body. This species is relatively new to the aquarium trade and is appreciated for its schooling behavior and ease of care.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
100 liter (26 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
23 to 28 °C (73 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
10 cm (4″)
Care level
Easy Hardy and adaptable
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet, accepts most foods
Social
School Best in groups of 6+
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
Yes Bred in home aquariums

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Damselfish
    Pomacentridae
  6. Genus
    Chromis
    Chromis
  7. Species
    Arabian chromis
    Chromis flavaxilla Randall, 1994

Care

Sunshine Chromis are hardy and can adapt to a variety of aquarium conditions, making them suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with stable water conditions and plenty of swimming space. A group of these fish will establish a hierarchy, so it's recommended to keep them in odd-numbered groups to prevent aggression.

Reproduction

In the wild, Sunshine Chromis reproduce by releasing eggs and sperm into the water column, where fertilization occurs. In the aquarium, breeding is less common, but with optimal conditions, they may spawn. The eggs are pelagic, and the developing larvae will need specialized care if the aquarist intends to raise them.

Habitat

Chromis flavaxilla is found in the Western Pacific, particularly around the Philippines and Indonesia. They inhabit coral-rich areas and lagoons, often forming large aggregations above stony corals and reef slopes.