Chromis viridis (green chromis) is a species of damselfish. Individuals tend to be iridescent apple-green and light blue, and reach a maximal length of 10 cm.[1]
It is sometimes called the "blue-green chromis", but that may also refer to Chromis caerulea, the blue puller, a close relative that is sometimes considered conspecific.
Adults of this species can grow up to 10 centimetres (3.9 in) at maximum length.[1] They have 12 dorsal rays, 9 to 11 soft dorsal rays, 2 anal spines, and 9 to 11 anal soft rays on their fins.[1] It is a blue green fish. When they are breeding, males turn more yellowish.[2]
In a marine aquarium, schools are kept in small groups of odd numbers.[citation needed] The green Chromis is relatively inexpensive. A small school will be more comfortable in a minimum size of a 110 litres (29 US gal) tank but a single specimen can be kept in a 38 litres (10 US gal). Some aquarists have successfully bred the blue green Chromis in the home aquarium.[4]
Tankmates
The green chromis is not housed with larger predatory fish, as they may become food themselves. Groupers, lionfish, and eels all present an element of danger for this species.
Reproduction
Chromis viridis spawn over sand and rubble. The male prepares the nest which is shared with several females. The nest is located on sand or rubble.[1][2] During spawning, the male turns more yellowish in color.[2] The large number of eggs will hatch in 2–3 days.[2] The male guards the nest and ventilates it with its fins and feeding on those eggs that do not hatch.[1][2] Males feed on unhatched eggs to prevent them from being breeding grounds for microorganisms which risks their lives.[2]
