(via Flickr : Abizeleth)
The Chromis genus is often viewed as one species by aquarists–Chromis viridis. However, there are over 80 other colorful, active, and peaceful offerings from this group that is part of the larger family Pomacentridae. Chromis share many of the same desireable captive traits as other damselfish, but generally lack the aggressive behavior that [...]
(via Flickr : Abizeleth)
The Chromis genus is often viewed as one species by aquarists–Chromis viridis. However, there are over 80 other colorful, active, and peaceful offerings from this group that is part of the larger family Pomacentridae. Chromis share many of the same desireable captive traits as other damselfish, but generally lack the aggressive behavior that can cause problems with other tank mates. These bullet proof fish can make a reef aquarium come alive by adding that natural dashing and darting shoaling behavior that we strive to recreate. Here are a few more striking species that will add variety and get other advanced hobbyists asking, what’s that?
Thanks to the work of famous ichthyologists Richard Pyle (A brief article on him from Esquire Magazine), John Earle, and Brian Green we now know 5 more Chromis species this year from deep reefs nearby the Marshall Islands, Palau, and Vanuatu. This was announced at the start of 2008 to mark the 250th anniversary of Systema Naturea, started in 1758 by Carl Linneaus, and the recent launch of Zoo Bank. The 5 new species are shown below. Photos taken by R. Pyle, O’Hara, J. Earle, and B. Greene.
Chromis abyssus | Captured at 120m, only known from Agulpelu Reef in Palau. Named after BBC documentary Pacific Abyss.
Chromis brevirostris | The Short Snout Chromis, captured at 90m
Chromis circumaurea | The Goldrim Chromis. Captured at 120M, known from the Marshall and Mariana Islands
Chromis degruyi | Found at the Caroline Islands. Named after Michael DeGruy
Chromis earina | The Spring Chromis. Captured at 98m
Information via:
R.L. Pyle, J.L. Earle and B.D. Greene (2008) Five new species of the damselfish genus Chromis (Perciformes: Labroidei: Pomacentridae) from deep coral reefs in the tropical western Pacific. Zootaxa 1671, pp. 3-31.
As you can see these fish were collected at serious depths, making it unlikely to see them in the trade anytime soon. If so it will not be at the usual Chromis prices. That said, there is always room in the glassbox for the beautiful C. abyssus.
A more common alternative is Chromis cyanea, The Blue Chromis from the Western Atlantic. These beautiful midnight blue beauties are commonly available at local and online fish stores. In my experience they tend to be less social than Chromis viridis. (Photo via Flickr : A. Ornellas)
Chromis dimidiata is another striking option. The stark contrast on these unique fish is magnified exponentially when in groups. Other black and white contrasting Chromis include C. margaritifer, the Hawaiian C. hanui and the blue eyed C. leucurus.
Chromis atripectoralis is nearly identical to and almost always mistaken as C. viridis. The main distinguishing characteristic is the black dot at the base of the fishes pectoral fins, that C. viridis lacks. As shown, males may also develop a darkened tail. Photo from Tevenei Marine at Lizard Island.
Chromis limbaughi is a beautiful species only found in the Sea of Cortez, also known as the Gulf of California, and the Revillagigedos Islands. As they mature the yellow is replaced by solid blue. Juvenile specimen shown, photo by Gerald Allen.
Chromis vanderbilti is one of the more sought after and rare species, and rightfully so. Perhaps we will see more coming in from the Cook Islands. (Photo via Flickr : algaedoc)
Another Atlantic dweller Chromis scotti, the Purple Chromis occasionally pops up at stores in the U.S. The Purple color would mix in well with blues and greens of C. cyanea and C. viridis.
Chromis analis is a great way to add bold yellow color in small tanks. This would also max a nice addition to the solid colored Chromis like C. scotti. Unfortunately like other yellow damsels, with age they lose their vibrance. Still a beautiful fish and a better choice than the Lemon Damsel, Amblyglyphidodon aureus.
These are just a few of my favorite Chromis that can add color, interest and life to any tank. You do not always need rare, deep water or expensive fish to capture the attention of onlookers. Many species of Chromis can easily handle that job and not cause financial distress. And while C. viridis is indeed a beautiful species, do not make the mistake of forgetting their equally charming relatives.
