Chromis nitida (Whitley, 1928)

Size

The yellowback puller (Chromis nitida) reaches a maximum total length of around 9 centimeters (3.5 inches).

Fin Structure

Its single dorsal fin contains 13 spines and 11 to 13 soft rays, while its anal fin holds 2 spines and 10 or 11 soft rays.

Body Markings

This species has a dark diagonal stripe that runs from the eye to the rear end of the dorsal fin.

Body Coloration

The area above this stripe is yellowish-brown, and the area below is silvery.

Caudal Fin Features

The deeply forked caudal (tail) fin has black markings along its upper and lower edges.

Native Range

The yellowback puller is native to the subtropical east coast of Australia.

Distribution Limits

Its distribution ranges from northern Queensland to southern New South Wales, and includes Lord Howe Island.

Depth Range

It occurs at depths between 5 and 25 meters (16 and 82 feet), living on the outer side of coral-rich rocky reefs and in estuaries.

Habitat Use By Life Stage

Juvenile yellowback pullers sometimes live in lagoons, and some adult individuals also inhabit these areas.