Clownfish

Clownfish belong to the Pomacentridae family and the Amphiprioninae subfamily. The majority of these fish belong to the genus Amphiprion. Clownfish are very hardy and among the most common fish associated with marine aquariums. Clownfish are similar to Damselfish and both of these fish are classified in the same family. Clownfish are most abundant throughout shallow waters in the Indo-Pacific region, and are almost always associated with sea anemones. Clownfish can live safely within the stinging tentacles of a sea anemone, where they receive protection from predators and other territorial fish. Most Clownfish are brightly colored with white stripes on the head or side of the body. The average size of Clownfish in an aquarium is around three inches, and in the wild they can be over seven inches. Depending on the age of the fish, Clownfish are found in either groups or mated pairs.

The diet of Clownfish consists of small crustaceans, plankton and algae. Clownfish prefer to live in an anemone, but it is not required for long-term health and survival in an aquarium. Ideally, Clownfish should be purchased in small groups consisting of one species, and introduced to the aquarium simultaneously. It is difficult to maintain several different species together, as the more aggressive species will usually kill off the weaker individuals.

Unlike most other marine fishes, the female is much larger than the male of the same species, but no color differences differentiate the sexes. Clownfish also have the ability to change sex, where the most dominant male will become a female, and can successfully produce offspring. Clownfish can be bred in an aquarium, and the offspring have been raised successfully for many years.

They are generally compatible with: Dwarf Angelfish, Large Angelfish, Anthias, Basslets, Batfish, Blennies, Boxfish, Butterflyfish, Cardinalfish, Clownfish, Damselfish, Filefish, Goatfish, Gobies, Grunts & Sweetlips, Hawkfish, Hogfish, Parrotfish, Pseudochromis, Puffers, Squirrelfish and Tangs & Surgeons.

Caution is required with: Anglers & Frogfish, Triggerfish and Wrasse.

They are not compatible with: Eels, Groupers, Lionfish & Scorpionfish, Seahorses & Pipefish and Sharks & Rays.