Blue Green Chromis

Chromis viridis

The blue green chromis (Chromis viridis), often called the green chromis or blue-green reef chromis, is a small damselfish associated with branching corals and clear reef slopes in the Indo-Pacific. Its color shifts between pale green, blue, and turquoise depending on light, mood, and viewing angle. In the wild, groups hover above coral heads and retreat into branches when threatened, feeding on plankton drifting through the water column.

Marine aquarists keep blue green chromis for active schooling movement, but they need more care than their hardy reputation suggests. Stable saltwater, strong oxygenation, peaceful tankmates, and frequent small feedings suit them better than bare or aggressive setups. Groups may dwindle if stressed or cramped, so quarantine and careful observation are worthwhile before adding them to a reef tank. Because similar Chromis species appear in trade, buyers should treat exact identification and collection source as part of responsible selection.