Pycnochromis hanui, commonly known as chocolate-dip chromis, is a species of damselfish endemic to Hawaii.[2]
| Pycnochromis hanui | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification  | |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Family: | Pomacentridae |
| Genus: | Pycnochromis |
| Species: | P. hanui |
| Binomial name | |
| Pycnochromis hanui (Randall & Swerdloff, 1973) | |
| Synonyms[1] | |
Chromis hanui | |
Description and biology
Pycnochromis hanui was formerly known as Chromis hanui.[1] They reach a max length of 6.0 cm,[3] and have an oval shaped body with a pointed nose and forked tail.[1] They have a total of 12 dorsal spines, 13 dorsal soft rays, 2 anal spines, and 13-14 anal soft rays.[3] The common name matches its appearance. The front half of its body looks as if it has been dipped in chocolate.[1] They are brown with a black spot on the pectoral fin base.[3] The caudal fin, caudal peduncle and adjacent part of the dorsal and anal fins are white.[3] Nuptial males have a yellowish-brown zone in the center and bright eyes.[1] Males guard and remove waste from the eggs, keeping them healthy.[3] Pycnochromis hanui are planktivore.[4]
Distribution and habitat
Pycnochromis hanui is endemic to Hawaii.[1] Adult Chocolate-dip Chromis live in inshore and offshore reefs.[3] They are found in mass groups above corals. They live in scuba depths of 6-50 meters, and live in 28°N - 17°N temperatures.[3]