The Green Chromis (Chromis viridis), also known as the Blue-green Chromis, is a species of damselfish. Individuals tend to be iridescent apple-green and light blue.

Distribution and Habitat

The Green Chromis is found in the Indo-Pacific including the Red Sea. It is found in tropical and subtropical waters. They live in coral reefs and lagoons. Individuals of this species are encountered in depths of 1 to 12 meters.

Physical Description

Adults of this species can grow up to 10 cm (3.9 in) at maximum length. They have 12 dorsal rays, 9 to 11 soft dorsal rays, 2 anal spines, and 9 to 11 anal soft rays. It is a blue green fish. When they are breeding males turn more yellowish.

Diet and Feeding

Phytoplankton, zooplankton, algae, copepods, and amphipods make up the diet of this fish in the wild. This fish also feeds on eggs that fail to hatch. In captivity it accepts a varied diet including flakes, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and frozen preparations.

Behavior and Reproduction

The Green Chromis schools in aggregations around Acropora coral heads. It spawns over sand and rubble. The male prepares the nest which is shared with several females. The large number of eggs will hatch in 2 to 3 days. The male guards the nest and ventilates it with its fins.

Aquarium Care

In a marine aquarium schools are kept in small groups of odd numbers. A small school will be more comfortable in a minimum size of a 30 gallon tank. This species is peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tankmates. It is considered reef-safe. It should not be housed with larger predatory fish.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.