Black Bar Chromis

The Black Bar Chromis, *Chromis retrofasciata*, is a small, peaceful damselfish native to the Indo-Pacific region. Its common name comes from the prominent black band that runs vertically just behind its pectoral fins, contrasting with its otherwise silvery-white body. This hardy and adaptable species is an excellent choice for beginner aquarists looking to add a splash of activity and color to their marine aquarium.

A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for the Black Bar Chromis. They are schooling fish in the wild and will thrive when kept in groups of three or more in the aquarium, which also helps to reduce any potential aggression. They are generally peaceful towards other fish but may become territorial towards conspecifics if not kept in a sufficient group size or if the tank is too small.

In the aquarium, the Black Bar Chromis is an omnivore and will readily accept a varied diet of high-quality marine flake food, pellet food, frozen mysis shrimp, and enriched brine shrimp. Offering a diverse diet will help maintain their vibrant colors and overall health. They typically reach a maximum size of around 3 inches in captivity. They are active swimmers and will appreciate plenty of open swimming space, as well as live rock for hiding and grazing.