Are you looking for a more unique and stunning clownfish for your saltwater reef aquarium? Consider a Clarkii Amphiprion clarkii! With a more round body shape and deep yellow base coloration, Clarkii clownfish will stand out in your tank. Clarkii clowns are the most widely distributed clownfish in the world, ranging from the Persian Gulf to the Soloman Islands and found as far north as Japan. They are incredibly hardy and tend to be one of the best species for pairing with just about any anemone you provide for them. 

Clarkiis will make their home nestled among the tentacles of anemones so you can expect that same fascinating behavior to occur in your tank. In captivity, Clarkii Clownfish will pair with not only anemones but also a variety of different soft corals should the opportunity exist. They tend to pair up with a host more readily than other species of clownfish so if this anemone and fish symbiosis is what you're looking for, Clarkii clowns are a great choice. 

Like most clownfish, they are territorial and will show aggression toward other clownfish. It is best to keep just one or two Clarkii per aquarium and keep in mind they won't mix well with other species of clownfish either.

General Tank Requirements

  • Size: Minimum tank size should be 20 gallons for a single pair, with larger tanks needed if keeping multiple pairs or species.
  • Water Conditions:
    • Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C).
    • pH: 8.1 to 8.4.
    • Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.020 to 1.025.
    • Regular checks for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate are crucial (aim for ammonia and nitrite at 0 ppm, nitrate less than 20 ppm).
  • Filtration: High-quality filtration with a protein skimmer to maintain optimal water quality.

Environment Setup

  • Live Rock: Abundant live rock for hiding and territorial establishment.
  • Substrate: Fine sand or mixed substrate that mimics their natural sandy bottom habitats.
  • Anemone Partnership: While not absolutely necessary, hosting anemones can benefit Clarkii clownfish. Suitable anemones include the Bubble Tip Anemone (Entacmaea quadricolor). Ensure that the tank’s lighting and water flow accommodate the anemones' needs.

Diet and Feeding

  • Diet: Offer a varied diet consisting of marine flake food, and frozen or live foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.
  • Feeding Frequency: Feed two to three times daily in small quantities that can be eaten within a few minutes.

Behavior and Compatibility

  • Social Structure: These fish are generally peaceful but can exhibit territoriality, especially towards other clownfish. Keeping them in established pairs is advisable.
  • Tank Mates: Compatible with most reef-safe fishes and invertebrates. Avoid larger, aggressive fish that might harass or outcompete them for food.

Health and Maintenance

  • Water Changes: Regular 10-20% bi-weekly water changes are crucial.
  • Observation: Monitor for signs of disease or stress such as rapid breathing, not eating, or lesions on the body.
  • Quarantine: Always quarantine new additions to prevent disease introduction.  

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