Clownfish

Overview

A small, vividly colored marine fish that is known for its symbiotic relationship with sea anemones. Clownfish are protected from the stinging tentacles of anemones due to a layer of mucus they develop that provides immunity. They are popular in marine aquariums due to their bright colors and interesting behavior.

Taxonomy

Kingdom:

Animalia

Phylum:

Chordata

Class:

Actinopterygii

Order:

Perciformes

Family:

Pomacentridae

Genus:

Amphiprion

Distribution

Natural range: Red Sea, Western Pacific

Sexual Dimorphism

Females larger and more colorful

Habitat

Type: Coral reef, Lagoon

Depth: 1 - 15 m

Substrate: Live rock, Anemone hosts

Water Parameters

Tank Requirements

Minimum Volume:

75 L

Recommended Volume:

100 L

Tank Shape:

Standard rectangle

Water Flow:

Moderate

Filtration:

Protein skimmer + biological filter

Lighting:

Full‐spectrum LED (8 - 10 hours/day)

Aquascape:

Live rock, Caves, Host anemone

Diet

Type: Omnivore

Staple foods: Flake food, Pellets

Supplements: Frozen mysis shrimp, Brine shrimp, Algae wafers

Feeding frequency: 2 times per day

Small portions to avoid overfeeding.

Behavior

Temperament:

Peaceful except among conspecifics

Social:

Pairs or small groups; hierarchical

Territorial:

Mildly

Compatibility

Suitable tankmates: Gobies, Blennies, Tangs

Avoid: Large aggressive species, Anemone predators

Breeding

Type:

Egg layer

Spawning Behavior:

Forms monogamous pairs; lays eggs on flat surfaces

Difficulty:

Moderate

Egg Care:

Adults guard the nest; remove fry to rearing tank

Notes:

Require anemone hosts for natural pairing.

Health

Common diseases: Brooklynella, Marine ich

Treatments: Freshwater dips, Medication per vet guidance

Price & Availability

Price range: 15 - 30 USD

Availability: Common

Conservation Status

IUCN:

Least Concern

CITES:

Appendix II

References

• Clownfish Care Guide (Accessed: 2025-04-27)