Pycnochromis dimidiatus (Klunzinger, 1871)
Chocolatedip chromis
photo by Greenfield, J.

Family:  Pomacentridae (Damselfishes), subfamily: Chrominae
Max. size:  9 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 1 - 36 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Western Indian Ocean: restricted to the Red Sea.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 12-12; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11-12; Anal spines: 2-2; Anal soft rays: 12-12. Description: Anterior 2/3 of the body dark brown to black; posterior 1/3 pearly white (Ref. 7247). Body depth 2.0-2.1 in SL (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Adults inhabit lagoon and seaward reefs. Abundant, in large aggregations over reef tops and upper edges of slopes (Ref. 9710). Usually seen solitary in reefs, staying close to the substrate in depths of about 10 m (Ref. 48636). Diurnal species (Ref. 52881. 120737). Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205). Eggs are demersal and adhere to the substrate (Ref. 205). Males guard and aerate the eggs (Ref. 205).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 20 November 2010 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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