Chromis xouthos Allen & Erdmann 2005

This species is distinguished by the following characters: DXIII,12; A II,11 (rarely 12); pectoral rays 19 (rarely 18); spiniform caudal rays 3; tubed lateral line scales 16-17; gill rakers 6-7 + 19-21 (total, 26-28); body depth 1.9-2.0 in SL; colour when alive is mainly golden brown with yellowish caudal fin and pale bluish-grey pelvic fins (Ref. 75747).

Life history characteristics for the family specify that this group is oviparous, with distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205). Eggs are demersal and adhere to the substrate (Ref. 205). Males guard and aerate the eggs (Ref. 205).

Dorsal spines (total): 13; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12; Analspines: 2; Analsoft rays: 11 - 12; Vertebrae: 26

This species is usually encountered in clear water over coral reefs at depths between about 12 and at least 45 m. Habitats include both gradually sloping bottoms and steeper drop-offs, but in the former case it was restricted to depths greater than 20 m in the vicinity of isolated, small patch reefs. Generally, this species forms aggregations ranging from just a few fish to at least 20-30 individuals, feeding on plankton up to several meters above the bottom. The fish retreat to caves, crevices, and ledges when approached closely by divers (Ref. 75747). Life history characteristics for the family specify that this species is oviparous, with distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205). Eggs are demersal and adhere to the substrate (Ref. 205). Males guard and aerate the eggs (Ref. 205).