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Chromis chromis

Known as Mediterranean chromis, Chromis chromis is a small fish (usually not more than 15 cm) with a laterally compressed body, with a small head, mouth in terminal position and a very forked caudal fin.

Chromis chromis is probably one of the most common fish in the Mediterranean. It is common for them to form, in coastal waters, more or less dispersed schools of hundreds if not thousands of specimens, moving in unison in the face of possible dangers.

Source: FAO

The adult specimens have a dark brown shade with the edges of the scales in black, although when observed from a distance they appear to be completely black. On the contrary, the juvenile specimens have one of the most striking colorations of the Mediterranean, an iridescent cobalt blue color, which calls powerfully the attention.

The dorsal fin of Chromis chromis is unique, although two regions can be distinguished. The first region has 14 spines. The second region, is formed by between 8 and 11 smooth rays, which are higher than the spines of the first region. The anal fin, is formed by 2 spines and between 9 and 11 soft rays. Of the two spines of the anal fin, the second is longer than the first, and is even longer than the longest of the soft rays of the anal fin. Pectoral fins generally have 18 rays, although it is possible to find specimens with 17.

The main diet of Chromis chromis consists of plankton, small benthic invertebrates and small fish.

The reproduction period of this species includes the summer months. During this time, the male specimens defend with unusual ferocity small territories in the rocky walls against other specimens of the same species. In the center of these territories, they conscientiously clean the rock of algae. Later, they perform a dance in order to attract possible female specimens. This dance consists of swimming towards the water column, to later carry out a fast movement towards their territory, indicating this way to the females the availability of the place prepared for the laying. Once the laying has occurred, the male is in charge of giving all possible care to the offspring. The fry hatch within a week of laying, at which time they move to slits or sea grasses where they obtain shelter and protection from predators. Recently it has been described that the young specimens seek the transitory protection of the Anemonia sulcata and/or other species of cnidarians.


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