Green Chromis - Chromis viridis

The Green Chromis is a popular and peaceful species of damselfish, known for its vibrant, emerald-green coloration. This small, schooling fish is often found in reef aquariums, where it adds both beauty and activity with its peaceful nature and shimmering scales.

Description:

• Common Name: Green Chromis, Blue-green Chromis

• Scientific Name: Chromis viridis

• Family: Pomacentridae

• Size: Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm)

• Coloration: Brilliant green to blue-green body, which can appear more vibrant under aquarium lighting. They have a smooth, streamlined body shape.

Native Region:

The Green Chromis is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including areas around the Philippines, Indonesia, and the Great Barrier Reef. They are commonly found in coral reefs, usually in midwater, where they form small to large schools.

Aquarium Setup:

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a small group; larger schools require a bigger tank to thrive.

• Rockwork: Live rock is essential for hiding, grazing, and sheltering. They are not overly territorial, but like to have places to hide.

• Swimming Space: A tank with open water space is ideal, as Green Chromis are active swimmers, especially in groups.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)

• pH: 8.1-8.4

• Salinity: 1.023-1.025 specific gravity

• Hardness: 8-12 dKH

Care Level:

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate; Green Chromis are relatively hardy and adaptable, making them a great choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

• Diet: Omnivorous; they will graze on algae and are also happy to accept high-quality flake or pellet food, as well as frozen foods like mysis shrimp and brine shrimp.

• Behavior: Very peaceful and social. Green Chromis are schooling fish, so it’s best to keep them in groups of at least 5 to 6 individuals. They often stay together, darting in and out of the rockwork and midwater.

Reef Compatibility:

• Reef-Safe: Yes, the Green Chromis is reef-safe. It does not pose a threat to corals or invertebrates, though it may occasionally nip at certain types of algae or zooplankton.

Tank Mates:

• Suitable Companions: Ideal tank mates include other peaceful species such as clownfish, wrasses, gobies, and blennies. They thrive in groups, so it’s recommended to keep multiple individuals to see their natural behavior.

• Avoid: Larger, more aggressive species such as predatory fish or other damselfish that might compete for space.

Additional Tips:

• Schooling Behavior: Keeping a group of Green Chromis is essential for their well-being. They tend to feel more secure and display their natural behaviors when in schools, including their peaceful swimming patterns.

• Feeding Routine: Offer a variety of foods, including algae-based foods, and ensure that they get enough nutrition to maintain their bright coloration and overall health.

• Water Quality: Maintain good water quality with regular water changes and proper filtration to keep the Green Chromis healthy. They are sensitive to poor water conditions and can develop stress-related health issues if not cared for properly.