Chromis sp.

Datasheet

General Description

The Blue/Green Black-axil Chromis, a member of the Pomacentridae family, is known for its stunning appearance, featuring a light aqua dorsal side blending into an iridescent green belly. Juveniles lack a black blotch at the pectoral fin base, similar to Chromis viridis, but develop it as they mature. Despite being a damselfish, this species is peaceful and can coexist harmoniously with various community fish, invertebrates, and corals.

Aquarium Suitability

Due to its peaceful demeanor and compatibility with a wide range of tank mates, the Blue/Green Black-axil Chromis is well-suited for aquariums. It thrives in environments mimicking its natural habitat, adding beauty and vibrancy to well-established reef systems.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

Characterized as easy to care for, this species is hardy and can live for 8 to 15 years in aquariums with excellent water quality. Regular feeding with a varied diet consisting of meaty foods, herbivore flakes, and frozen preparations is crucial for their well-being. Vitamin-enriched foods can help maintain their vibrant body colorations.

Reef Suitability

Being reef-compatible, the Blue/Green Black-axil Chromis is a great addition to reef aquariums, where they can thrive alongside corals and other reef inhabitants.

Aquarium Setup

The Blue/Green Black-axil Chromis thrives in aquariums with a minimum size of 113 litres, ideally mimicking their natural reef environment. Providing ample swimming space and structures resembling branching corals, such as Acropora, can enhance their well-being. Maintaining stable water conditions with a pH of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12 is crucial for their health.

Behaviour

In the home aquarium, these Chromis species are active swimmers that occupy various levels of the water column. When kept in small schools, they add a dazzling and dynamic element to the tank.

Feeding and Diet

As omnivores, Blue/Green Black-axil Chromis should be fed multiple times a day with a diverse diet to ensure their nutritional needs are met. Their diet should consist of meaty foods, herbivore flakes, and frozen preparations to promote optimal health.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

Mature males of the Blue/Green Black-axil Chromis undergo a color change, transitioning to a muted yellow when ready to nest. While some aquarists have successfully bred this species in home aquariums, it requires pristine water conditions in large, non-predatory systems.

Habitat and Distribution

Native to the Indo-Pacific and South Pacific regions, Blue/Green Black-axil Chromis can be found in mid-depth to shallow lagoons, reefs, and clear waters. They prefer swimming in large shoals among branching corals like Acropora, contributing to the vibrancy of their natural habitat.