Common name: bicolor chromis

Scientific name: Chromis margaritifer Fowler, 1946
シコクスズメダイの幼魚 The bicolor chromis (Chromis margaritifer).
Bicolor Chromis Chromis margaritiferシコクスズメダイの幼魚

General information

The Blue-Green Reef Chromis, Chromis margaritifer, is a small and peaceful fish that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. They are known for their striking blue-green coloration and schooling behavior, which adds dynamic movement and a splash of color to any reef setup.

These fish are part of the Pomacentridae family, which also includes the well-known clownfish. Unlike some of their more territorial relatives, Blue-Green Reef Chromis are more sociable and can be kept in groups.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
100 liter (26 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
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
    bicolor chromis
    Chromis margaritifer Fowler, 1946
  8. Synonyms
    Chromis dimidiatus margaritifer Fowler, 1946
    Chromis margarifer Fowler, 1946
    Chromis margaritifera Fowler, 1946

Care

Blue-Green Reef Chromis are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with stable water conditions and plenty of swimming space. It's important to provide them with a varied diet that includes meaty foods and herbivore preparations to maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Blue-Green Reef Chromis spawn over reef slopes and ledges, releasing their eggs into the water column. In the aquarium, breeding can occur but raising the larvae can be challenging due to their small size and specific feeding requirements.

Habitat

Naturally found in the Indo-Pacific region, Blue-Green Reef Chromis inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often seen in large schools above stony corals and alongside other reef fish. They are typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 12 meters.

Their natural distribution spans from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific, including the Great Barrier Reef and the islands of Oceania.