
Chromis analis
Family: Pomacentridae ยท Chromis & Damselfish
Also known as: Yellow Puller, Golden Chromis
The Yellow Chromis is a warm and vibrant schooling fish that brings a splash of golden sunshine to the reef aquarium. Its body displays a uniform golden yellow coloration that ranges from bright lemon to a deeper amber depending on diet, lighting, and individual variation. This solid warm hue sets it apart from the more commonly kept blue and green Chromis species, offering aquarists a beautiful alternative for adding movement and color to their tank.
In the wild, Yellow Chromis are found throughout the Western Pacific, from Australia's Great Barrier Reef to Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. They inhabit outer reef slopes and lagoons where they form schools above coral structures, feeding on zooplankton in the water column. They are typically encountered at moderate depths and show a preference for areas with good water flow that delivers a steady supply of planktonic food.
In the home aquarium, Yellow Chromis are hardy and easy to care for, making them suitable for beginner marine aquarists. They grow slightly larger than some other Chromis species, reaching up to 5 inches, so a tank of at least 55 gallons is recommended for a small group. They are completely reef-safe and their peaceful temperament allows them to coexist with virtually all other non-aggressive community fish. A school of five or more Yellow Chromis creates a stunning golden display that provides an excellent visual counterpoint to the blues and greens of a typical reef aquarium.
Yellow Chromis are omnivorous planktivores that feed on zooplankton and phytoplankton in the wild. In captivity, they readily accept marine flakes, pellets, frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and cyclops. Color-enhancing foods with astaxanthin help maintain their vibrant golden hue. Feed two to three times daily.
Yellow Chromis are peaceful and compatible with virtually all community reef fish. They coexist well with clownfish, tangs, wrasses, gobies, blennies, and other peaceful species. Their slightly larger adult size means they are less vulnerable to predation than smaller Chromis species.
Check CompatibilityYellow Chromis are substrate spawners with male parental care. The male prepares and guards the nest site until the eggs hatch. Spawning may occur in captivity but rearing the pelagic larvae requires specialized live food cultures.