Arabian Chromis

The Arabian Chromis (Chromis flavaxilla) is a tropical marine fish commonly associated with reefs at depths ranging from 1 to 18 meters. It reaches a maximum length of 7.2 cm. This species features an olive-brown body with darker scale edges transitioning to gray on the underside. Its spinous dorsal and anal fin margins, along with the lateral edges of its pelvic fins, exhibit a blue coloration. Notably, the axil of the pectoral fins is marked by a bright orange-yellow, while the caudal fin is light greenish-gray, each lobe presenting a broad black band and narrow blue upper and lower margins.

Adult Arabian Chromis typically form aggregations on reefs, where they feed on zooplankton and seek refuge in branching corals. They are oviparous, exhibiting distinct pairing behaviors during the breeding season. The eggs are demersal, adhering to the substrate, with males actively guarding and aerating them.

This species is found in the western 🌊 Indian Ocean, particularly around the Arabian Peninsula, extending from the northern 🌊 Red Sea to the 🌊 Persian Gulf. The name "Chromis" originates from Greek, referring to a type of fish, possibly a perch.