Bicolor Chromis (Chromis margaritifer)

Fish in the family Pomacentridae. Easy care. Reef Safe.

Quick facts

Scientific nameChromis margaritifer

FamilyPomacentridae

Care levelEasy

Reef safetyReef Safe

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietomnivore

Adult size3.5 in

Minimum tank size20 gallons

Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025

Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

A small damselfish with a distinctive bicolor pattern: the head and front half of the body are bright orange-yellow, while the rear half and tail fin are deep blue or purple-blue. The body is laterally compressed and streamlined. This striking contrast makes it one of the most recognizable chromis species.

Diet and feeding

Feed high-quality micro pellets and small flake foods 2–3 times daily. Supplement with live or frozen copepods, mysis shrimp, and spirulina-based foods to support color and natural feeding behavior.

Difficulty and care for the Bicolor Chromis

Easy - Suitable for beginners with basic care requirements and hardy nature.

Common health issues

Ich, marine velvet, fin rot if water quality declines

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Great Barrier Reef and nearby reefs in Australia westward through Melanesia and Micronesia to the Philippines and Indonesia.

Log Bicolor Chromis in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Bicolor Chromis alongside everything else in your reef.

Download Reef Trak See the full app