Common name: lined chromis
General information
The Lined Chromis, Chromis lineata, is a small and colorful member of the damselfish family. It is known for its striking blue lines that run along the sides of its body, which can add a vibrant splash of color to any reef aquarium. These fish are relatively peaceful and can be kept with a variety of other reef-safe species.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 9 cm (3½″)
- Care level
- Easy Hardy and adaptable.
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet; flakes and pellets.
- Social
- School Best in groups of 6+.
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- Yes Bred in home aquariums.
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyDamselfishPomacentridae
- GenusChromisChromis
- Specieslined chromisChromis lineata Fowler & Bean, 1928
Care
Lined Chromis are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with stable water conditions and plenty of live rock for shelter. These fish are omnivorous and will accept a wide range of foods, including frozen, flake, and live offerings. It's important to feed them a varied diet to maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
In the wild, Lined Chromis form breeding pairs or small groups. They are known to spawn on substrates, where they lay adhesive eggs that are guarded by the male until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding can occur if the environment is stable and the fish are well-fed, but raising the fry can be challenging due to their small size and specific dietary requirements.
Habitat
Lined Chromis are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They prefer shallow, coral-rich areas and lagoons, often forming schools in the wild. In the aquarium, they benefit from a similar environment with plenty of hiding places and room to swim.
Geographical distribution includes areas such as the Red Sea, East Africa, the Maldives, Indonesia, Japan, and the Great Barrier Reef.