Yellow Chromis (Chromis nitida) Care Guide
Chromis nitida, the barrier reef chromis, is a subtropical damselfish endemic to eastern Australia that forms midwater groups over outer reefs.
Overview
Chromis nitida, the barrier reef chromis, is a damselfish of the family Pomacentridae endemic to eastern Australia, including Lord Howe Island. It is a subtropical, cooler-water species that gathers in midwater groups.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacentridae
- Genus: Chromis
- Scientific name: Chromis nitida
Habitat
The species is restricted to eastern Australia, including Lord Howe Island, in subtropical waters between about 12°S and 35°S. It is reef-associated, found in coralliferous areas on outer reef edges at depths of 2-40 m, typically 8-25 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: up to about 9 cm
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
Diet
FishBase gives a trophic level of 2.7, consistent with a planktivorous and omnivorous diet. In the aquarium small frozen and prepared marine foods offered two times daily are suitable.
Compatibility
A peaceful mid-water species that gathers in small to large midwater groups. It mixes with clownfish, tangs, wrasses and gobies. Aggressive damselfish and predators such as lionfish should be avoided.
Reef compatibility
The yellow chromis is reef-safe. It feeds on plankton in open water 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 eggs that adhere to the substrate. Captive breeding is considered difficult.