Chromis atrilobata Gill, 1862

Taxonomic Classification

This damselfish species is currently classified as Chromis atrilobata Gill, 1862, and was previously called Azurina atrilobata. It is commonly known as the scissortail damselfish, and belongs to the damselfish family Pomacentridae.

Distribution Range

Its distribution ranges across the eastern Pacific Ocean, from the Gulf of California down to northern Peru; this range includes both the Galapagos Islands and the Cocos Islands.

Habitat

The species lives in coral and rocky reefs.

Group Behavior

It forms large aggregations that swim in open water above reefs.

Diet

Its diet consists of zooplankton.

Territoriality

It does not exhibit strong territorial behavior.

Deep Water Coloration

In the darkness of deep water, all of its body becomes invisible except for a white spot located behind its dorsal fin, which creates the illusion that the spot is glowing in the dark.

Reproductive Mode

The species is oviparous.

Egg Care Behavior

Males of this species guard and aerate the eggs after they are laid.