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Little Shop of Coral

Vanderbilt Chromis (Chromis vanderbilti)

Vanderbilt Chromis (Chromis vanderbilti)

$50.00 CAD
$50.00 CAD
Sale Sold out
Size

The Vanderbilt Chromis is a stunning, reef-safe damsel relative known for its vivid blue tones and active mid-water swimming. It brings constant movement without the heavy aggression that many damselfish are known for, especially when kept in the right group size and given plenty of space. In a reef display, these fish add that “open water” energy that makes the whole tank feel more alive.

Why we love it

  • Brilliant blue coloration that pops under reef lighting

  • Active mid-water swimmer that adds constant movement

  • Reef safe and great for community tanks

  • Looks best in small groups in larger aquariums

Care and Compatibility

Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful to Semi-aggressive
Reef Safe: Yes
Diet: Omnivore
Adult Size: ~4"
Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons recommended (larger ideal for groups)

Feeding

Vanderbilt Chromis are typically strong eaters and do best with variety.

  • Frozen mysis and brine shrimp

  • Quality pellets and flakes

  • Frozen reef blends
    Feed once or twice daily and aim for consistent, smaller portions.

Tank and Setup Notes

  • Provide open swimming space plus rockwork for retreat

  • Moderate flow and good oxygenation are ideal

  • Stable parameters help reduce stress, especially in groups

  • A secure lid is recommended in tanks with jump-prone fish

Compatibility Tips

  • Great with most peaceful community reef fish

  • Groups work best in larger tanks so weaker fish can avoid dominant individuals

  • In smaller tanks, consider fewer fish to reduce chasing

  • Avoid very aggressive tank mates that will keep schooling fish pinned down

Acclimation and Health

Slow acclimation is recommended. This species is generally hardy once feeding well. Quarantine is ideal when possible, especially if you plan to add them to an established community.

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LIGHT

LOW: Place coral at the bottom of the tank. Depending on the type, coral may need to be placed off sand and therefore mounted on a ceramic disc of piece of rock.

MEDIUM: Place coral at mid-range of the tank. Best placed/glued on top of a rock scape at mid-range height. 

HIGH: Place coral from mid range to just below water level. SPS coral are shallow growing so they require and are able to tolerate intense light.

FLOW

LOW: Most soft coral do well with a small, gentle pulse. There are certain corals that can even be placed in areas of indirect flow, meaning places aside a rock structure or set into a entrance to a cave style space.

MEDIUM: Many LPS types of coral prefer medium pulse current. Most Euphyllia or corals that have more tissue structure connected to their skeleton, don’t like to be in a high flow area like the direct flow of the wave pump.

HIGH: Similar to high light, SPS enjoy being in some heavy current. Most LPS and SPS that branch encrust or plate prefer high flow that simulates the top water waves.

SKILL

ENTRY: While some may say beginner level, "Entry" is a good term to be used when starting out in the world of corals and marine life. Prior to adding livestock, you want to ensure that your reef has the proper parameters including zero levels of ammonia and nitrite. Seeing traces of nitrate in your waters is a good sign - just keep them at a lower level of 2ppm to 10ppm. Maintaining correct temperature and salinity are a huge factor to stable parameters. Starting to monitor your PH, alkalinity, calcium and magnesium is a great habit to get into to keep a successful reef.

While some soft coral don’t require too much light, having a proper reef light that puts out the proper pars is very important. You'll also want to have a good amount of flow and protected rock areas, as placing corals in their happy spot is ideal for success.

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