Another Chromis question

[Shawn O]

I've read posts from others, notably by Snorvich, that if you add multiples of Chromis species to your tank they will kill each other off until there is only one left. Does this apply to all species of Chromis or just some of them? Blue Chromis and Blue-Green Chromis are the two most often cited, does this include the Black Axil Chromis?

A second related question, how large of a tank would you need to have to before these fish no longer feel the need to kill each other?

 

[AdamNC]

I had 3 Green Chromis about 2 months ago, I'm down to 1. 1 just went missing and the other seemed to have a chunk taken out of his chest, died about 5 days later.

 

[Sk8r]

One of the big problem with ALL damsels except clowns is sleeping space and territory...each has to have his own nook for the night. A hundred gallon tank will give most midsize-species damsels peaceful space for 1 of a kind. With chromis, they tend to die in night-battles for space if there is not enough sleeping space. I would say 1 chromis per 50 gallons would probably get along ok. I have not, be it clear, mixed varieties---what I have are black axil.

 

[Shawn O]

OK, thanks folks.

 

[claireputput]

Why is it that everywhere I am reading, animal planet, fish lore, other online articles all identify the blue green chromis as a shoaling fish. According to these sites if you keep a minimum of 6 in a large enough tank, they will then be fine. What's up and why the difference in opinions-is this just an opinion issue?

 

[thegrun]

It is rare for someone with a tank under 120 gallons to be able to keep more than one damsel.

 

[MinnFish]

Why is it that everywhere I am reading, animal planet, fish lore, other online articles all identify the blue green chromis as a shoaling fish. According to these sites if you keep a minimum of 6 in a large enough tank, they will then be fine. What's up and why the difference in opinions-is this just an opinion issue?

No, it's a fact. Sure they are a shoaling fish in nature. No opinion issue here, just facts. I have tried several times with the same results, only one survivor. Happy reefing.

 

[Salty Cracker]

Seems strange I have five blue's. They get along and school.

 

[MinnFish]

Seems strange I have five blue's. They get along and school.

What size tank? How long have you had them?

 

[Salty Cracker]

Five In a 55 for over a year.

 

[bvaughn7]

thanks for the info

 

[PCygni]

I started out with one blue/green... and still have one blue/green. They are beautiful fish, but one is enough for me.