Chromis xanthochira (Bleeker, 1851)
Yellow-axil chromis
Chromis xanthochira
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Pomacentridae (Damselfishes), subfamily: Chrominae
Max. size:  14 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 10 - 48 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Western Central Pacific: Indonesia, Philippines, Palau, Guam, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and northern Great Barrier Reef. Reported from Christmas Island in the eastern Indian Ocean.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 13-13; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11-11; Anal spines: 2-2; Anal soft rays: 11-12. Description: Head yellowish, body bluish grey, scales edges dark, tail dark brown or black (Ref. 90102). Recognized by the large yellow blotch around the pectoral fin base and base part of the fin, standing out in the natural lights at depths (Ref. 48636). Body depth 2.0-2.2 in SL (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Adults are found primarily along deep outer reef walls (Ref. 48636). They occur singly or in small groups in outer reef slopes. Feed on plankton (Ref. 7247). Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205). Eggs are demersal and adhere to the substrate (Ref. 205). Males guard and aerate the eggs (Ref. 205). Diurnal species (Ref. 113699).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 01 August 2021 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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