Image of a Green Chromis, Chromis viridis

Green Chromis

Chromis viridis

Reviewed for accuracy · Last updated Jan 13, 2026, 11:20 PM

Generally peaceful schooling damselfish that occupies midwater areas and may show mild hierarchy-related aggression in groups.

Key Information

Water Type

Marine

Temperament

Peaceful

Care Level

Easy

Minimum Tank Size

32 gal (120 L)

Maximum Size

4 in (10 cm)

Lifespan

6–8 years

Diet

Omnivore

Migration

Resident

Green Chromis Behavior and Compatibility

Green Chromis are compatible with peaceful reef fish. They coexist with gobies, clownfish, and cardinals. They are safe with corals and invertebrates. Avoid aggressive damselfish species.

They may show mild aggression among themselves. Adequate space reduces hierarchy stress. Peaceful tank mates are recommended. Schooling improves confidence.

They ignore bottom dwellers. They occupy midwater zones. Community tanks suit them well. Compatibility improves in groups.

They are good community fish. Observe social dynamics. Proper tank size is critical. Overall compatibility is good.

Best Tank Mates for Green Chromis

Green Chromis Tank Setup and Care

Green Chromis thrive in spacious reef aquariums with open swimming areas. They prefer stable marine parameters and good water flow. Live rock provides shelter and security. They are active midwater swimmers.

They are best kept in groups. Larger tanks reduce aggression. They tolerate standard reef lighting. Consistent water quality is essential.

They are hardy and adaptable. Regular maintenance supports health. They suit beginner aquarists well. Proper space prevents stress.

A covered tank prevents jumping. They acclimate quickly. Balanced environments promote schooling. Overall care is uncomplicated.

Green Chromis Diet and Feeding

Green Chromis are omnivorous and accept a wide diet. They eat pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. Small frequent feedings are ideal. They feed actively in the water column.

A varied diet enhances coloration. Meaty foods support growth. Vegetable-based foods add balance. Live foods can be offered occasionally.

Avoid overfeeding to maintain water quality. They compete actively for food. Ensure all individuals receive nutrition. Consistent feeding routines help.

Juveniles may need smaller foods. They adapt easily to captive diets. Balanced nutrition supports longevity. Diet management is easy.

Green Chromis Breeding and Reproduction

Breeding Green Chromis in captivity is uncommon. They spawn in groups in the wild. Eggs are laid on hard substrates. Males guard the eggs briefly.

Larvae are planktonic and difficult to raise. Specialized live foods are required. Separate larval systems are necessary. Survival rates are low.

Breeding usually occurs in large systems. Captive breeding is rare commercially. Most specimens are wild-caught. Breeding requires advanced experience.

Proper conditioning may trigger spawning. Stable environments are essential. Patience is required. Breeding is considered difficult.

Green Chromis Water Parameters

75–82 °F (24–28 °C)
8.0–8.4
7–11 dGH
1.020–1.026 SG

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Frequent Questions About Green Chromis

  • What tank size is ideal for Green Chromis Chromis viridis?

    Green Chromis requires a minimum tank size of 30 gallons for a small group, with larger volumes recommended to support schooling behavior and stable water conditions. Adequate swimming space helps reduce stress and aggression within the group.

  • How should Green Chromis Chromis viridis be cared for in a marine aquarium?

    Green Chromis care involves maintaining stable salinity, temperature, and water quality, along with moderate water flow and open swimming areas. A mature, well-filtered aquarium supports long-term health and reduces susceptibility to stress-related diseases.

  • What is the typical behavior of Green Chromis Chromis viridis?

    Green Chromis exhibits peaceful, active behavior and spends most of its time swimming in the upper and mid-water levels. While generally non-aggressive, dominance hierarchies may form in small or overcrowded groups.

  • What do Green Chromis Chromis viridis eat in captivity?

    Green Chromis feeds on zooplankton in the wild and thrives on a varied diet of high-quality marine flakes, pellets, frozen foods, and finely chopped meaty items. Regular feeding supports coloration, growth, and immune health.

  • Do Green Chromis Chromis viridis school in home aquariums?

    Green Chromis is known for schooling behavior, especially in larger groups and spacious tanks. In smaller aquariums, weaker individuals may be harassed, making proper group size and tank volume essential.

  • Are Green Chromis Chromis viridis compatible with other reef fish?

    Green Chromis is highly compatible with peaceful community species such as Clownfish, Blue Tang, and Yellow Tang. Compatibility is best in reef tanks with sufficient space and minimal territorial competition.


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