Black-Bar Chromis (Chromis retrofasciata) Care Guide
Chromis retrofasciata is a small western Pacific damselfish of coral-rich reefs, often seen singly or in small groups near branching corals.
Overview
Chromis retrofasciata, the black-bar chromis, is one of the smallest chromis, reaching only about 6 cm standard length. It is a western Pacific damselfish of the family Pomacentridae, named for the dark bar across the rear of the body. FishBase places it in the genus Pycnochromis (Pycnochromis retrofasciatus).
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacentridae
- Genus: Chromis
- Scientific name: Chromis retrofasciata
- Current placement: Pycnochromis retrofasciatus (FishBase)
Habitat
The species ranges from Indonesia to Fiji, north to the Ryukyu Islands and south to New Caledonia. It inhabits coral-rich areas of clear lagoon and seaward reefs at depths of 12-120 m, staying near thickly branching coral for shelter.
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 6 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 species that occurs singly or in small groups in the wild and adapts well even when kept alone. It mixes with clownfish, tangs, wrasses and gobies. Aggressive damselfish and predators such as lionfish should be avoided.
Reef compatibility
The black-bar chromis is reef-safe and its small size makes it suitable for nano reef aquariums. It shelters among branching corals and does not harm corals or invertebrates.
Breeding
Reproduction involves distinct pairing, with males guarding and aerating eggs that adhere to the substrate. Captive breeding is considered difficult.