Dark-Fin Chromis

Pycnochromis atripes

The Dark-fin Chromis, known scientifically as Pycnochromis atripes, is a small damselfish found throughout the Western Pacific Ocean, from Christmas Islands and north-western Australia to Kiribati and southern Japan, and as far east as Tonga. This species is commonly seen in coral-rich areas of outer reef passes and slopes, often appearing singly or in small groups near the bottom. Divers will typically encounter this fish at depths ranging from 2 to 40 meters, though it is most commonly found between 10 and 25 meters. This damselfish is characterized by its orangish-brown body, with faint bluish to lavender iridescence on the lower head and thorax. It features large eyes, a smooth preopercular margin, and distinctive blackish spots on its dorsal and anal fins. The caudal peduncle and fin edges are also blackish, with a wedge-shaped black spot at the base of the pectoral fin. The Dark-fin Chromis reaches a maximum length of about 9 cm. Reproduction in this species involves distinct pairing, with males taking on the role of guarding and aerating the eggs, which are demersal and adhere to the substrate. The Dark-fin Chromis is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.