Yellow-fin Chromis (Chromis flavipectoralis) Care Guide
Chromis flavipectoralis is an Indian Ocean damselfish of sheltered coral reefs, usually seen singly or in loose groups along upper reef slopes.
Overview
Chromis flavipectoralis, the yellow-fin or Malayan chromis, is a damselfish of the family Pomacentridae from the Indian Ocean. Its name refers to yellow coloration on the pectoral fin area. FishBase places it in the genus Pycnochromis (Pycnochromis flavipectoralis).
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacentridae
- Genus: Chromis
- Scientific name: Chromis flavipectoralis
- Current placement: Pycnochromis flavipectoralis (FishBase)
Habitat
The species occurs in the Indian Ocean from the Maldives to Java, Indonesia. It is reef-associated, found on seaward reef slopes and sheltered coral reefs along upper slopes at depths of 2-15 m.
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
- Group size: keep singly or in small groups
- Adult size: up to about 8 cm
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
Diet
Like other chromis it is an omnivore feeding on small planktonic items. In the aquarium small frozen and prepared marine foods offered two times daily are suitable.
Compatibility
A peaceful species usually seen singly or in loose groups in the wild. It mixes with clownfish, tangs, wrasses and gobies. Aggressive damselfish and predators such as lionfish should be avoided.
Reef compatibility
The yellow-fin chromis is reef-safe. It does not harm corals or invertebrates and suits reef aquariums with moderate flow.
Breeding
Reproduction involves distinct pairing, with males guarding and aerating the eggs. Captive breeding is considered difficult.