Vanderbilt's Chromis

Vanderbilt's Chromis is a tiny and vibrantly colored Pacific species that has become increasingly popular among nano reef enthusiasts. Despite reaching only 2 inches in length, this species packs a stunning visual punch with its iridescent blue body accented by bright yellow highlights along the dorsal surface and upper caudal region. Under reef lighting, the blue coloration shimmers and shifts, creating a jewel-like appearance that belies the fish's diminutive size.

Native to the Pacific Ocean with a particular concentration around Hawaii, Vanderbilt's Chromis inhabits reef slopes and walls where they form tight-knit schools above coral structures. Their association with Hawaiian reefs makes them a prized species among collectors of Pacific reef fish. They are found at moderate depths and are particularly common in areas with good water flow and abundant coral cover.

In the aquarium, Vanderbilt's Chromis are hardy and easy to care for, making them ideal for both nano reefs and larger community systems. Their tiny adult size allows them to thrive in tanks as small as 20 gallons, though they display their best schooling behavior in slightly larger setups with groups of five or more. They are completely reef-safe, accepting a wide variety of prepared foods, and their combination of brilliant coloration, small size, and peaceful temperament makes them one of the finest nano-appropriate schooling fish available in the marine hobby.