Blue Green DamselfishChromis viridis
Category
- Fringing Reef
Description
The Chromis viridis, from the order of Perciformes and family of Pomacentridae (Damselfish) is known as the Blue-Green Damselfish. This almond shaped damselfish is of an iridescent greenish-blue colour[1] and its scales are very visible[2]. The species has a total of 12 dorsal spines, 9 to 11 dorsal soft rays, 2 anal spines and 9 to 11 anal soft rays.
Habitat and ecology
This species is present across the Indo-Pacific ocean, from the East coast of Africa to the Line Islands and Tuamotu Archipelago. It is also present in the north of Ryukyu Islands, south of the Great Barrier Reef and New Caledonia. Adults are found in groups near branching Acropora corals in sheltered regions such as subtidal reef flats and lagoons. Juveniles lives in close proximity to individual coral heads. Their diet consists of phytoplankton.
This species breeds on coral rubble or in sandy areas. The males prepare the nest, shared by several females. A large number of eggs are released, fertilised and these hatch within two to three days. Eggs adhere to the substrate. The male individuals guard the nests, ventilating the eggs using their caudal fins. They eat unhatched eggs. Distinct pairing is formed during breeding[1].
Conservation and management
The conservation status of this species has not been evaluated yet.
Did you know?
This species can reach a maximum of 10cm.
