Brown Chromis (Chromis multilineata) Care Guide
Chromis multilineata is an Atlantic planktivorous damselfish, now placed in Azurina, that forms feeding schools over reef tops alongside the blue chromis.
Overview
Chromis multilineata, the brown chromis, is an Atlantic damselfish of the family Pomacentridae described in 1853. FishBase now places it in the genus Azurina (Azurina multilineata). It forms moderate feeding schools over reef tops and is often found together with the blue chromis.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacentridae
- Genus: Chromis
- Scientific name: Chromis multilineata
- Current placement: Azurina multilineata (FishBase)
Habitat
The species occurs in the western Atlantic from Florida and Texas throughout the Caribbean to Brazil, with eastern Atlantic populations at St Helena, Ascension and Sao Tome. It is reef-associated, found on steep slopes and patch reefs at depths of 0-60 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
- School size: 6 or more individuals
- Adult size: commonly about 12 cm, up to 20 cm
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
Diet
In the wild it feeds on plankton, primarily copepods, forming feeding schools that rise above the bottom over reef tops. In the aquarium an omnivorous diet of small frozen and prepared marine foods fed two times daily is suitable.
Compatibility
A peaceful, diurnal schooling species often found alongside Chromis cyanea in the wild. It mixes with clownfish, tangs, wrasses and gobies. Aggressive damselfish and predators such as lionfish should be avoided.
Reef compatibility
The brown chromis is reef-safe. It feeds on plankton in the water column and does not harm corals or invertebrates, suiting reef aquariums with moderate flow.
Breeding
Reproduction involves distinct pairing, with males guarding and aerating the eggs. Captive breeding is considered difficult.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (2015 assessment).