The threespot chromis is usually dark gray or black with three white spots: one above, one below, and one on the bottom of the tail.[4] Specifically, the three white spots are located on the rear base of the dorsal fin, the rear base of the anal fin, and at the mid-base of the caudal fin. This species is able to lighten or darken its spots which could also disappear. This species has a lower body condition and weight-at-length in mesophotic sites compared to shallow reef sites.[5] However, at times it can turn almost entirely silver-gray. During spawning season, the male species tend to lighten their bodies while their fins are dark, resembling a pattern of Hawaiian Dascyllus.
You can see the threespot chromis at almost any beach on the island. These species tend to live in rocky bottom areas around caves with a depth between 20 and 500 feet but are usually seen at slightly over 100 feet.[4] The species' behavior determines their habitat preference. To care for these fishes, they should be given wide-open swimming areas. The threespot chromis is locally common along ledges where they're exposed to the current where it feeds on zooplankton.
The threespot chromis can be displayed in a commercial aquarium. To care for these fishes, they should be given wide-open swimming areas. If in an aquarium, provide caves and ledges for shelter, this species probably prefers a low-lit aquarium.
