Common name: purple reeffish

Scientific name: Chromis scotti Emery, 1968

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

  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
    purple reeffish
    Chromis 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.