Green chromis missing his tail

[bluecheese]

Just noticed that one of my chromis is missing his tail. He’s part of a group of 8 green chromis that have been in the tank since October 5, 2021. I haven’t witnessed any bullying or aggressive behavior

He’s separated himself from the rest of the group and is currently staying at the top corner of the tank.

The only recent change to the tank was adding snails and sand sifting starfish last week, but I don’t think either of those could bite off a tail.

There is also a pair of clownfish that have been in the tank since August 2021.

Any ideas?

 

[SPS2020]

Add some pvc elbows and T's for hiding spots. Chromis are aggressive. Every time I add a dozen, one survives. You have had good success with the longevity thus far, IMO.

 

[bluecheese]

Add some pvc elbows and T's for hiding spots. Chromis are aggressive. Every time I add a dozen, one survives.

There are tons of hiding spots in the rockwork already. I've never witnessed any aggression between the chromis before.

 

[SPS2020]

There are tons of hiding spots in the rockwork already. I've never witnessed any aggression between the chromis before.

Interesting. Any powerheads they might hang around (too closely)?

 

[bluecheese]

Interesting. Any powerheads they might hang around (too closely)?

I suppose it's possible. Though I imagine it would be difficult for him to get his tail into one of the powerheads.

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

There are tons of hiding spots in the rockwork already. I've never witnessed any aggression between the chromis before.

You may not actually see the aggression - the bite is over in a split second, and then, bacteria may start a secondary infection. Isolating it might allow it to regrow, but it may need antibiotics in a treatment tank.
Jay