Spring Chromis

This species is distinguished by the following characters: Dorsal rays XII-XIII, 11-12, usually XIII, 12; anal rays II, 12; pectoral rays 17-18, usually 18; spiniform caudal rays 3; tubed lateral-line scales 13-15, rarely 16; gill rakers 6-8 + 18-21 (total 26-28, rarely 25); body depth 1.65-1.9 in SL. The color when fresh is pale slate blue (bright pale green in life) with a white spot (sometimes two white spots) roughly the size of a scale mid-laterally on the body; malachite green area above orbit and in inter-orbital space and nape; the dorsal and anal fins with bright distal border of pale turquoise blue (Ref. 59379).

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).

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

Adults inhabit steep outer reef slopes and drop-offs with rocky outcrops and small caves and holes, often in association with limestone talus; usually observed in pairs or small groups, feeding low in the water column, and are generally abundant where they are found (Ref. 59379). 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).