Two-Color Chromis (Chromis dimidiata) Care Guide
Chromis dimidiata, the chocolatedip chromis, is a Red Sea damselfish with a striking dark front and pale rear, forming aggregations over reef tops.
Overview
Chromis dimidiata, the chocolatedip chromis, is a damselfish of the family Pomacentridae known for its two-tone pattern. FishBase restricts the species to the Red Sea and places it in the genus Pycnochromis (Pycnochromis dimidiatus).
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacentridae
- Genus: Chromis
- Scientific name: Chromis dimidiata
- Current placement: Pycnochromis dimidiatus (FishBase)
Habitat
According to FishBase the species is restricted to the Red Sea in the western Indian Ocean. It inhabits lagoon and seaward reefs at depths of 1-36 m, with adults gathering in large aggregations over reef tops and the upper edges of slopes. Preferred temperatures range from about 24.8 to 29.1 °C.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Specific gravity: 1.024-1.026
- Carbonate hardness (dKH): 8-12
- School size: 6 or more individuals
- Adult size: up to about 9 cm
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
Diet
FishBase gives a trophic level of 2.7, indicating an omnivorous diet. In the aquarium small frozen and prepared marine foods offered two times daily are suitable.
Compatibility
A peaceful mid-water species. It mixes with clownfish, tangs, wrasses and gobies. Aggressive damselfish and predators such as lionfish should be avoided.
Reef compatibility
The two-color chromis is reef-safe. It feeds over reef tops and does not harm corals or invertebrates, suiting reef aquariums with moderate flow.
Breeding
Reproduction involves distinct pairing during breeding, with males guarding and aerating the eggs. Captive breeding is considered difficult.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2010).