Pycnochromis hanui
Pycnochromis hanui, commonly known as chocolate-dip chromis, is a species of damselfish endemic to Hawaii.
Description and biology
Pycnochromis hanui was formerly known as Chromis hanui. They reach a max length of 6.0 cm, and have an oval shaped body with a pointed nose and forked tail. They have a total of 12 dorsal spines, 13 dorsal soft rays, 2 anal spines, and 13-14 anal soft rays. The common name matches its appearance. The front half of its body looks as if it has been dipped in chocolate. They are brown with a black spot on the pectoral fin base. The caudal fin, caudal peduncle and adjacent part of the dorsal and anal fins are white. Nuptial males have a yellowish-brown zone in the center and bright eyes. Males guard and remove waste from the eggs, keeping them healthy. Pycnochromis hanui are planktivore.
Distribution and habitat
Pycnochromis hanui is endemic to Hawaii. Adult Chocolate-dip Chromis live in inshore and offshore reefs. 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.