Chromis limbata facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chromis limbata |
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The Azores chromis or Atlantic chromis (Chromis limbata) is a type of damselfish. It belongs to a family of fish called Pomacentridae. You can find this fish near the Macaronesian Islands in the eastern Atlantic Ocean. It has also been spotted along the coast of western Africa.
What It Looks Like
The Azores chromis is a greyish-brown fish. It has dark fins on its back (the dorsal fin) and underneath (the anal fin). The outer edge of its tail fin (the caudal fin) is also dark. The part of the tail closest to its body is whitish.
When it's time to lay eggs, the male fish changes color. It gets a slightly purple glow to attract a mate. This fish has big eyes and a mouth that can stick out far. It has three rows of small, sharp teeth.
Its dorsal fin has 14 stiff spines and 11 or 12 soft rays. The anal fin has 2 spines and 10 to 12 soft rays. This fish can grow up to about 12 centimeters (almost 5 inches) long.
Where It Lives
You can find the Azores chromis in several places. It lives around the Azores and Madeira islands, which are part of Portugal. It also lives near the Canary Islands in Spain.
This fish has been seen off the coast of western Africa. Its range goes from Senegal all the way to Pointe Noire in the Congo. Another similar fish, Lubbock's chromis, lives in the Cape Verde Islands.
Sometimes, a few Azores chromis have been found far away. They were seen near islands in Santa Catarina, southern Brazil. These fish might have traveled there by accident. They could also have arrived in the water that ships carry for balance.
How It Lives
Adult Azores chromis live near rocky reefs. They also like sandy areas with seaweed. They usually live in water that is 5 to 45 meters (about 16 to 148 feet) deep. They are most common between 5 and 50 meters deep.
These fish lay eggs. When they are ready to breed, a male and female form a pair. The male cleans a spot on the seabed. The female then lays her eggs there. The eggs stick to the surface. The male fish guards the eggs and keeps fresh water flowing over them.
The Azores chromis can be found close to the ocean floor. They also swim in large groups called schools in the open water. They eat small creatures that live on the seabed or tiny animals floating in the water.
Why It's Important
The Azores chromis is a popular fish to eat in Madeira. Local fishers catch them in small boats. This is especially true off the south and east coasts of the island.
