The Black Bar Chromis is a peaceful and attractive marine fish from the reefs of the Western Pacific. Commonly found around branching coral heads in the wild, this species is known for its tan to yellow body colouration and distinctive vertical black bar near the base of the tail.
Hardy, active, and full of personality, Black Bar Chromis make a great addition to suitable marine aquariums. They are generally peaceful and spend much of their time swimming in the open water column, adding movement and life to the tank. They also have a very endearing look about them — small, bright, active, and, to be honest, pretty damn cute.
Black Bar Chromis are best kept in groups, ideally six or more, where they can display more natural schooling behaviour and feel more secure. When kept alone, they may become more nervous or occasionally more territorial, so a group setup is usually the better option.
A 115 litre or larger aquarium is recommended, with plenty of live rock and hiding places. They do well in reef aquariums and are generally considered reef safe, making them suitable for tanks with corals and other peaceful marine livestock.
Black Bar Chromis are omnivores and should be offered a varied diet. Feed a mix of quality marine flake or pellet food, frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, and vegetable-based foods to help maintain colour, health, and condition.
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Safe: Yes
Diet: Omnivore
Minimum Tank Size: 115 litres
Best Kept: In groups of six or more
Origin: Western Pacific
With their peaceful nature, active swimming behaviour, distinctive markings, and undeniably cute appearance, Black Bar Chromis are a fantastic choice for adding movement, charm, and natural reef energy to a marine aquarium.
