Caribbean Sunset Chromis Chromis Insolata

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Caribbean Sunset Chromis (Chromis insolata)

Overview

The Caribbean Sunset Chromis is a colourful, mid-sized chromis admired for its pinkish to orange “sunset” hues, sometimes fading into lavender or blue along the dorsal side. Growing to about 12–13 cm (5 inches), it is one of the larger chromis species. Active and hardy, it adds movement and a unique splash of warm colour to community aquariums. Like many chromis, it does best in groups, though it is more assertive than the smaller Indo-Pacific species.

Origin

Found throughout the Western Atlantic and Caribbean, including Florida, the Bahamas, and down into the Lesser Antilles. In the wild, it inhabits outer reef slopes, drop-offs, and coral-rich areas, often in small shoals above branching corals.

Feeding

The Sunset Chromis is a planktivorous omnivore and adapts well to aquarium diets:

• High-quality marine flakes and pellets

• Frozen mysis, cyclops, and enriched brine shrimp

• Finely chopped seafood (shrimp, clam, squid)

• Algae-based or spirulina foods to maintain colouration and health

Feed 2–3 times daily in small amounts.

Tank Mates

Generally peaceful but somewhat bolder than the smaller Chromis viridis-type species. Suitable companions include:

• Clownfish

• Gobies and blennies

• Reef-safe Wrasses

• Cardinalfish

• Tangs and dwarf angelfish

Avoid aggressive predators and be cautious when mixing with very delicate nano fish.

Aggression

Peaceful to semi-aggressive. While more docile than true damselfish, larger individuals may establish dominance hierarchies, particularly if kept in smaller groups. Best housed in shoals of 5+ in a sufficiently large tank to spread aggression.

Experience Level

Beginner to intermediate. Hardy and adaptable, though its larger adult size means aquarists should plan for a bigger system than with smaller chromis species.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Salinity: 1.020–1.025 SG

• Hardness (dKH): 8–12

• Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons (210L) for a small group; larger preferred for long-term success

Provide open water for schooling with coral or rock structures for cover.

Reef Compatibility

Reef safe. Will not harm corals or invertebrates and adds lively schooling activity to reef aquariums.

Above images for illustration purposes only. Exact colours, patterns, and size may vary between individuals.

Please note: The livestock that is sold on our online site is not held in store at our Swell shop, or available for collection from the shop. Species sold at our Swell store will differ from ones available to order to your door.

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