Common name: bicolor chromis
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
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyDamselfishPomacentridae
- GenusChromisChromis
- Speciesbicolor chromisChromis margaritifer Fowler, 1946
- SynonymsChromis dimidiatus margaritifer Fowler, 1946Chromis margarifer Fowler, 1946Chromis 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.