Fin's Fish Guide
The Paletail chromis (Chromis xanthura) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The paletail chromis is a damselfish from the western Pacific, from southern Japan to Australia and Tonga. The species grows to about 17 cm and has a dark grey to black body with a conspicuously paler, yellowish-white tail; juveniles have blue tones in the fins. Adults form large groups that hover several metres above the reef and pick zooplankton from the current. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Paletail chromis?
The Paletail chromis has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Dark body with a strikingly pale tail; forms large plankton-feeding shoals
Where does the Paletail chromis live?
The Paletail chromis lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific
How big does the Paletail chromis get?
The Paletail chromis grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Paletail chromis dangerous to humans?
No, the Paletail chromis is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Paletail chromis edible?
The Paletail chromis is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chromis
More from the family Pomacentridae
Want the complete picture on the Paletail chromis?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Paletail chromis is one of 12,519 species in the app.