Barrier Reef Chromis

Care

The Barrier Reef Chromis is known from coral-rich outer reefs and lagoons. Here, they congregate in small to large aggregations, feeding on zooplankton in the water column, at depths between 5-25m (16-82ft). In an aquarium situation, Barrier Reef Chromis must be provided with a reef environment with plenty of nooks and crannies amongst the rockwork. Tankmates should be of a moderately peaceable nature, as unlike many other members of the damselfish family, these remain a relatively quiet species into adulthood. However, they will show territorial aggression towards other Pomacentrid (damselfish) species so avoid housing them with other damsels unless you are blessed with a system of vast proportions. In an average sized aquarium housing a shoal of Barrier Reef Chromis, they should be considered the focal point of the tank and dominant, open water species such as large angelfish or tangs should be avoided if the Chromis are to flourish. It is best to keep Barrier Reef Chromis in groups of 6 or more due to their shoaling nature. The tank should be well mature before adding these fish, and the entire group should be introduced simultaneously.

Feeding

Offer a varied diet consisting of small frozen foods such as Spirulina-enriched brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp and finely chopped krill, plus marine flake food and herbivore rations. Feed small amounts 3 times per day. Enriching your frozen foods with liquid vitamin products prior to feeding will help your fish to retain their colours.

Breeding

The Barrier Reef Chromis has not been bred in the home aquarium. This species is said to form distinct pairs when breeding. The eggs are demersal and adhere to the substrate, with the male fish guarding them until they hatch.