Common name: brown chromis
General information
The Multiline Damsel, scientifically known as Chromis multilineata, is a small and colorful member of the Pomacentridae family, which includes damselfish and clownfish. This species is known for its peaceful demeanor and striking appearance, with multiple thin lines running horizontally across its body. The Multiline Damsel is a schooling fish and can add a dynamic element to a reef aquarium with its active swimming behavior.
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
- 10 cm (4″)
- Care level
- Easy Hardy and easy to keep.
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet of meaty foods and algae.
- Social
- School Best in groups of 5+.
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- Yes Bred in home aquariums.
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyDamselfishPomacentridae
- GenusChromisChromis
- Speciesbrown chromisChromis multilineata (Guichenot, 1853)
- SynonymsChromis cautus (Troschel, 1866)Chromis marginata (Castelnau, 1855)Furcaria puncta Poey, 1860Heliases marginata Castelnau, 1855Heliases multilineatus Guichenot, 1853Heliastes marginata Castelnau, 1855Heliastes marginatus Günther, 1869Onychognathus cautus Troschel, 1866
Care
Chromis multilineata is a hardy species that adapts well to life in captivity. They thrive in well-established aquariums with stable water conditions and plenty of swimming space. These fish prefer to be kept in groups, which can reduce aggression and stress. A varied diet of meaty foods, high-quality flake, and pellet foods will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
In the wild, Multiline Damsels are known to spawn in groups, with males preparing nesting sites and courting females. In the aquarium, breeding can occur if the environment is stable and the fish are well-fed. The male will guard the eggs until they hatch, which typically occurs after several days.
Habitat
The natural habitat of the Multiline Damsel includes shallow coral reefs and lagoons in the Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Bahamas to Brazil. They are often found in groups, swimming among stony and soft corals, which provide shelter and feeding opportunities.