Did you know there are 28 recognized species of clownfish (Amphiprioninae)?

Within that clownfish sub-family, 6 unique complexes group the various species based on similar traits. The 6 groups of clownfish are Maroons, Percula, Saddleback, Tomato, Clarkii and Skunk Clowns.

Almost all of the recognized clownfish species can be found in the aquarium trade but the most common, by far, are the Percula (Amphiprion percula) and Ocellaris Clownfish(Amphiprion ocellaris). These are those iconic classic orange, white, and black clownfish we have come to know and love. They are often pictured in pairs, swimming amongst the waving tentacles of their host anemone. Ocellaris and Percula clownfish are widely bred in captivity making them readily available to hobbyists in a wide variety of different color morphs. They are hardy fish, that are easy to care for and generally full of personality.

All clownish have the same care requirements with only minor variations in their temperament and maximum adult size. 

General Tank Requirements

  • Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons
  • 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.

Clownfish

Habitat

Clownfish are hands down the most iconic and popular saltwater aquarium fish. In terms of habitat, they are not picky but they can be territorial which means they will often choose a rock, anemone, or coral in the aquarium to call their own. They will fearlessly defend this area from other fish and occupy the space 90% of the time. This stems from their natural symbiosis with anemones where the clownfish takes residence amongst the tentacles of an anemone. On that note, having a host anemone for your clownfish is not mandatory; clownfish will be perfectly happy choosing a rock, coral, or some other area of the tank. 

  • Live Rock: Abundant live rock for hiding and territorial establishment.
  • Substrate: Fine sand or mixed substrate that mimics their natural sandy bottom habitats.
  • Lighting: Natural day and night cycle using any suitable aquarium light.
  • Flow: Clownfish can thrive in a variety of different flow conditions which will be determined by corals and or anemones housed in the same aquarium. Inside a fish-only aquarium, moderate oscillating water flow is recommended.
  • Anemone Partnership: While not necessary, hosting anemones can benefit clownfish and allow you to observe an interesting symbiosis. A Bubble Tip Anemone (Entacmaea quadricolor) is the best choice for they are one the hardiest anemones and readily available. Just be sure the tank’s lighting and water flow accommodate the anemones' needs.

Clownfish

Diet & Feeding

Clownfish are Omnivores, meaning they eat both meaty and plant-based foods. Offering both will give your new fish the nutrition it needs to not only survive, but thrive in your aquarium. True Percula Clownfish aren't typically picky eaters and will accept food in a variety of forms. 

  • Frozen Food: Mysis Shrimp or other marine-specific frozen foods can provide a quality diet but with less risk of overfeeding vs pellet or flake foods. 
  • Pellet Food: High-quality neutrally buoyant pellets are a great option, especially for clownfish that prefer to feed in the water column, rather than at the water surface. Pellet foods are typically very nutrient-dense, so care should be taken to avoid overfeeding the aquarium, which can contribute to poor water quality. Many aquarists will feed herbivore-specific pellets like Hikari Seaweed Extreme in conjunction with a meaty frozen food for a complete diet.
  • Flake Food: Flake food isn't as popular among saltwater aquarists, but if you opt for flake food, be sure to choose a marine-specific option formulated to meet the needs of saltwater fish.
  • Feeding Frequency: Feed your Clownfish small portions 2-3 times daily. This frequent feeding schedule helps maintain stable energy levels. Ensure each portion is small enough for them to consume within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality. Your Clownfish will probably always look hungry, so it can be hard to stop yourself from adding more food to the tank.

Compatibility

Clownfish are generally peaceful and can coexist harmoniously with a variety of other marine species. However, understanding their compatibility with other fish and invertebrates is crucial to maintaining a balanced and stress-free aquarium environment.

Common Tank Mates: Clownfish can be kept with a wide range of peaceful marine species. Here are some ideal tank mates:

  • Fish: Gobies, Blennies, Cardinalfish, most Wrasse, Firefish, Tangs, Dwarf Angelfish, and other peaceful fish.
  • Invertebrates: Clownfish won't bother most invertebrates, so Cleaner Shrimp, Hermit Crabs, Snails, Urchins, and more are all safe to keep with clownfish
  • Coral: Clownfish are considered reef-safe and can be kept with Soft, LPS, or SPS coral. Clownfish will often pick coral as their host if an anemone is not available, which can sometimes cause mild irritation to the coral.

Behavioral Notes: Clownfish, especially when kept in pairs, can exhibit slightly territorial behavior. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

  • Territoriality: Clownfish may become territorial, particularly if they are protecting a specific area or an anemone. This behavior is more pronounced in smaller tanks.
  • Pair Dynamics: A pair of clownfish often establishes a hierarchy, with one dominant individual (usually the larger female) and a subordinate (smaller male). They will defend their chosen territory together, but their aggression is typically limited to their immediate surroundings.
  • Group Behavior: While pairs are common, clownfish can also be kept in small groups. However, it’s essential to monitor them closely for signs of aggression and ensure that the tank is large enough to provide adequate space for all individuals. Keeping them in groups is not recommended for beginner aquarists.

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.

Breeding

Clownfish are protandrous hermaphrodites and breed well in captivity. Providing a clay pot or similar surface can encourage spawning. The male typically guards the eggs after the female lays them in a carefully selected location. Rearing the fry is the most difficult part of raising clownfish in captivity and requires dedicated aquariums and a source of live foods to provide sufficient nutrition.    

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