Black-Bar Chromis

The Black-Bar Chromis is a small and attractively patterned species easily identified by its bright yellow body crossed by a distinctive vertical black bar near the tail. This simple but eye-catching color pattern, combined with its tiny adult size of just 2 inches, makes it an ideal choice for nano reef aquariums and smaller setups where space is limited. Despite its diminutive stature, this species has a lively and engaging personality.

Native to the western Pacific, particularly Indonesia and the Philippines, Black-Bar Chromis inhabit sheltered reef areas and lagoons where they form small groups among branching corals. They are closely associated with coral structure, using it as shelter from predators and a base from which to venture into the water column to feed on passing plankton.

In the aquarium, Black-Bar Chromis are hardy and easy to maintain, readily accepting a wide variety of prepared foods. They are best kept in small groups of three to five individuals in tanks of 20 gallons or larger. Their small size means they can be housed in nano reefs that would be too small for most other schooling fish. They are completely reef-safe and their combination of attractive coloration, small size, and peaceful temperament makes them a charming addition to any community reef setup.