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Green Damsel Fish, Chromis Viridis

Scientific name: Chromis viridis

•             Common name: Green damselfishcastanet fish, green maiden

•             Aquarium size: 200 liters

•             Temperament: Territorial with the same species

•             Temperature: Between 23º and 28ºC

•             pH: Between 8.2 and 8.4

•             Diet: omnivores

•             Length: 8cms

Description

The green damsel fish or chromis viridis, belongs to the pomacentrid family, it is a marine fish of the same family as the clown fish.

It receives other common names, such as castanet fish or green maiden fish, in any case, it is still the same species.

It is a very popular marine fish because it is reputed to be quite easy to care for, as well as being a resistant fish, ideal for those who start with their aquarium of marine species. www.antibioticsfish.com

Morphology

Its size ranges between 6 and 8 centimeters. Its name, green damsel, is due to the fact that its coloration is light green, with certain bluish touches, although during its growth, the coloration goes through different phases.

The body of chromis viridis is laterally compressed and oval in shape.

Certain sexual dimorphism is appreciated in the breeding season, in which the male takes on a yellowish color.

Group of chromis viridis

Distribution and habitat

The chromis viridis fish is native to the Indian and Pacific oceans. It is possible to find it on the east coast of Africa, on the Great Barrier Reef and in New Caledonia.

It lives in shallow marine waters of up to twenty meters, near the coast, sheltered by corals.

Aquarium conditions

The aquarium to enjoy the green damsel must have a capacity of about 200 liters. The water must be well filtered and oxygenated, with a temperature between 23º and 28ºC, a pH between 8.2 and 8.4 and a salt density between 1023 and 1025.

For castanet fish to be in good condition, its natural habitat must be reproduced, including rocks in which to leave holes, which can serve as a refuge.

Diet

It is an omnivorous fish that feeds on phytoplankton in the wild. In the aquarium it is perfectly adapted to receive dry flake or granulated food. The diet should be supplemented with algae, brine shrimp and small frozen crustaceans.

Behavior and compatibility

The green damselfish is a peaceful fish, which usually has a good behavior compared to other species.

They are gregarious fish, it is necessary to put a small group, with the condition that if the aquarium is not very big, put a single male, because they are very territorial. Each male mates with several females.

It is usually recommended to introduce all the fish in their juvenile stage, to improve harmony and avoid problems between species.

Reproduction

Reproduction of green damselfish in aquariums is possible.

•             Thechromis viridis, breeds on sand and rubble bottoms, although it can also lay its eggs in holes between rocks.

•             The males prepare the nest for spawning, which they will share with several females.

•             The males are in charge of protecting the nest, keeping the nest ventilated and protecting the fertilized eggs with their caudal fins.

•             The fertilized eggs hatch after two or three days.

•             It is necessary to provide a special diet for the fry, based on phytoplankton.

Tips

The green damselfish is a suitable fish for all those who, with little experience, want to maintain a marine aquarium.

There are only a few rules to follow, such as keeping castanets in a small group, in which there will be only one dominant male and three or four females.

It is appropriate for a community marine aquarium, and for an invertebrate aquarium. www.antibioticsfish.com

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