Common name: purple reeffish
General information
Scott's Chromis (Chromis scotti) is a small, vibrant damselfish known for its striking blue-green coloration and peaceful demeanor, making it a popular choice among reef aquarium enthusiasts. Originating from the Western Atlantic, particularly around the Caribbean and Bermuda, this species is often found in schools, swimming in the water column above reefs where they feed on zooplankton.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 26 °C (75 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.4
- Average size
- 8 cm (3″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Hardy, good for beginners
- Diet
- Omnivore Flakes, pellets, and frozen foods
- Social
- School Best in groups of 5 or more
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- Yes Available as captive-bred
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyDamselfishPomacentridae
- GenusChromisChromis
- Speciespurple reeffishChromis scotti Emery, 1968
Care
Scott's Chromis are relatively hardy and can adapt to a variety of aquarium conditions, but they thrive best in well-established tanks with stable water quality. They prefer a tank with plenty of swimming space and some hiding places among live rock. A varied diet of meaty foods, high-quality flake, and pellet foods will help maintain their color and health.
Reproduction
In the wild, Scott's Chromis spawn in groups, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. In the aquarium, breeding is less common, but with a well-maintained environment and a group of individuals, spawning behavior may be observed. The eggs are pelagic, drifting with the currents until they hatch.
Habitat
Scott's Chromis are typically found in the warm, clear waters of the Western Atlantic, from Bermuda and the northern Gulf of Mexico to the northern coast of South America. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky outcrops, usually at depths ranging from the surface to about 60 feet.