Scissortail Chromis

The Scissortail Chromis (Chromis atrilobata) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe, admired for its sleek silver body accented by a deep black forked “scissor” tail and graceful schooling behavior. Males typically exhibit slightly brighter coloration and may become more territorial during spawning, while females/juveniles remain more subdued in color and less aggressive. They reach about 5 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 70 gallons (larger tanks preferred for groups).

Provide ample open swimming space with scattered live rock for shelter and occasional hiding spots, stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79 °F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid since many species are prone to jumping. Diet should consist of a varied mix of mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, quality marine pellets/flakes, and occasional copepods or planktonic foods. With proper care, this hardy chromis makes a dynamic, shimmering addition to reef or community aquariums, especially when kept in small peaceful shoals.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.