Deep Blue Chromis

This species is distinguished by the following characters: Dorsal rays XIV,12-13, usually 13; anal rays II,12-14, usually 13; pectoral rays 18-19, usually 19; spiniform caudal rays 3; tubed lateral-line scales 14-16; gill rakers 6-7 + 17-18, usually 7 + 18, total 24-25, usually 25; body depth 1.58-1.83 in SL; the color when fresh is dark gray with a large iridescent dark blue spot at center of each scale; membranes on median fins and pelvic fins opaque charcoal gray, with an iridescent dark blue margin on the spinous part of the dorsal and anal fins; caudal fin mottled iridescent dark blue and black; pectoral fins with a black ovoid spot covering the basal portion and pectoral-fin axis (Ref. 59379).

Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205). Eggs are demersal and adhere to the substrate (Ref. 205). Males guard and aerate the eggs (Ref. 205).

Dorsal spines (total): 14; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12 - 13; Analspines: 2; Analsoft rays: 12 - 14

Adults appear to prefer depths more that 115 m, staying close to the substratum, sand and rubble slope with boulders and rock outcroppings. They take refuge in small caves and holes. Juveniles and some subadults were observed around limestone talus. Adults were usually solitary or in pairs, while subadults and juveniles were seen in small groups. Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205). Eggs are demersal and adhere to the substrate (Ref. 205). Males guard and aerate the eggs (Ref. 205). Other Chromis associated with this species include C. brevirostris, C. degruyi and C. earina (Ref. 59379).