Blue Reef Chromis
Chromis cyaneus
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 Blue Reef Chromis
General information
The Blue Reef Chromis, also known as the Blue Chromis or Humpback Chromis, is a peaceful, hardy, and popular saltwater aquarium fish. It has a bright blue body with a slightly darker hue on the upper back and a black spot at the base of the pectoral fin. The fish has an average size of 3 inches (7.5 cm) and can live up to 5 years in captivity. It is recommended to keep them in groups of 3 or more to reduce aggression.
Diet & nutrition
In the wild, Blue Reef Chromis feed on plankton and small crustaceans. In captivity, they will eat most types of prepared foods such as flakes, pellets, frozen, and live foods. It is recommended to feed them small amounts multiple times a day rather than one large feeding.
Determining sex
It is difficult to determine the sex of Blue Reef Chromis without examining their reproductive organs.
Breeding & spawning
Blue Reef Chromis are known to spawn in the home aquarium, but breeding them is challenging. Spawning can occur in groups, and the eggs are adhesive and will attach to a surface. The eggs will hatch in 2-3 days, and the larvae will be free-swimming after another 5-7 days.
Diseases
Like many other saltwater fish, Blue Reef Chromis are susceptible to parasitic infections, bacterial infections, and fungal infections. Symptoms of illness include lack of appetite, abnormal swimming behavior, and visible spots or discoloration on the skin. Proper tank maintenance, a healthy diet, and regular observation can help prevent disease.
Origination
The Blue Reef Chromis is native to the Indo-Pacific region, specifically from the Maldives to the Society Islands.
Cautions
Blue Reef Chromis are generally considered safe for most reef aquariums, but caution should be taken with very small shrimp or small fish that may be mistaken as food.
Acclimation process
Acclimating Blue Reef Chromis is essential for their well-being. It is recommended to slowly drip acclimate them to the new environment over 1-2 hours.
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