Black Axil Chromis
Chromis atripectoralis
Saltwater Fish
Species Group: Chromis
Family: Pomacentridae
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Water parameters
Temp
76-80 F
Temperature
Maintaining a stable and appropriate temperature is critical for the survival of aquatic life.
pH 7.8 - 8.4 potential of HydrogenMeasuring the acidity or alkalinity of water on a 0–14 scale, where 7 is neutral, 7 is alkaline.
NO3 1-20 ppm NitrateWhile less toxic than ammonia, high nitrate levels (above 40–80 ppm) are important to monitor because they can cause fish stress, stunted growth, and harmful algae blooms.
NO2 <0.0001 ppm NitriteIt is a highly toxic, intermediate compound in the nitrogen cycle produced from broken-down ammonia
PO4 0.01 - 0.1 ppm PhosphateIt is essential for plant development but must be managed, as excess levels trigger nuisance algae blooms and inhibit coral calcification.
NH3 <0.1 ppm AmmoniaIt is the primary killer of aquarium fish, causing gill damage, stress, and death
Ca 380 - 450 ppm CalciumSupporting the growth, skeletal structure, and shell formation of corals, mollusks, crustaceans, and coralline algae
KH 8 - 12 dKH AlkalinityIt acts as a shield, neutralizing acids to prevent dangerous pH "crashes" that can harm fish, corals, and plants.
Mg 1200 - 1400 ppm MagnesiumIt enables coral growth by supporting skeletal formation, assists in metabolic processes, and ensures that calcium is available for corals, clams, and coralline algae.
SG 1.023 - 1.026 SG SalinityEssential for maintaining stable, natural water parameters, proper osmoregulation, and stress-free environments for marine fish and corals
ORP 250 - 400 mV Oxidation-Reduction PotentialA higher positive mV indicates clean, oxygen-rich water with high water quality, while low readings indicate high pollution.
About Black Axil Chromis
General information
The Black Axil Chromis is a small saltwater fish that can grow up to 3 inches (8 cm) in length. They are generally peaceful and do well in small groups in aquariums that are at least 30 gallons. They prefer to have plenty of hiding places in their tank.
Diet & nutrition
In the wild, the Black Axil Chromis feeds on plankton and small crustaceans. In captivity, they will eat most types of prepared foods, including flakes, pellets, and frozen foods like brine shrimp and mysis shrimp. They should be fed twice a day.
Determining sex
It is difficult to determine the sex of the Black Axil Chromis without observing breeding behavior.
Breeding & spawning
Black Axil Chromis have been known to spawn in captivity, but it can be difficult to breed them successfully. They will lay their eggs on a flat surface and the male will fertilize them. The eggs will hatch in about 3-5 days.
Diseases
Black Axil Chromis are relatively hardy and disease-resistant. However, they can be susceptible to common saltwater fish diseases like ich and velvet. It is important to maintain good water quality and quarantine new fish before adding them to the aquarium to prevent the spread of disease.
Origination
The Black Axil Chromis is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea and the western Pacific Ocean.
Cautions
Black Axil Chromis are generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful species. However, they may become aggressive towards other Chromis species if they are housed in a small tank.
Acclimation process
Black Axil Chromis should be acclimated slowly to their new environment. Float the bag in the aquarium for 15-20 minutes to allow the water temperatures to equalize. Open the bag and add small amounts of aquarium water to the bag every 5-10 minutes for an hour. Finally, use a net to transfer the fish to the aquarium.
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