Chromis punctipinnis (Cooper, 1863)

Common and Scientific Name

This fish, commonly called the blacksmith with the scientific name Chromis punctipinnis (Cooper, 1863), can grow up to 25 centimetres (10 inches) in total length.

Adult Coloration

Its body is blue-black, with small black spots located toward the tail section.

Body and Fin Features

It has large scales and a forked tail.

Juvenile Coloration

Juvenile blacksmith have a two-toned coloration: a blue-grey front half and a brownish-orange rear half.

Depth Range and Substrate Habitat

Blacksmith live at depths up to 46 metres (151 feet), and typically stay close to the sea floor, over rocky substrates or on sloped reef areas.

Additional Habitat

They also commonly inhabit kelp forest environments.

Spawning Period

Blacksmith spawn during the summer and autumn seasons.

Pre-spawning Behavior

For reproduction, the male first cleans a nesting site, then herds a female to the prepared nesting area.

Post-spawning Parental Care

After spawning is complete, the male guards the fertilized eggs until they hatch.