Clownfish

Clownfish

Amphiprion ocellaris

Beginner Freshwater Territorial fish that forms stable pairs with a host anemone. The female is dominant and larger than the male. Protandrous hermaphrodite: all are born male and the dominant individual becomes female. Pomacentridae
Max Size 8.0 cm (3.1")
Min Tank 120 L (32 gal)
Min Group 2+
Diet Omnivore. Accepts marine flakes, pellets, mysis, brine shrimp, frozen foods and quality pellets. Varied feeding recommended.

Water Parameters

Temperature
24.0-27.0°C
75-81°F
pH
8.0-8.4
Hardness (dGH)
8.0-12.0
Min Tank Size
120 L
32 gal

About

The Clownfish is probably the most recognized marine fish in the world, popularized by cinema. Its mutualistic relationship with sea anemones is one of the most fascinating examples of symbiosis in nature. Widely captive-bred, it is the ideal marine fish for beginners.

Behavior & Temperament

Territorial fish that forms stable pairs with a host anemone. The female is dominant and larger than the male. Protandrous hermaphrodite: all are born male and the dominant individual becomes female.

Feeding

Omnivore. Accepts marine flakes, pellets, mysis, brine shrimp, frozen foods and quality pellets. Varied feeding recommended.

Breeding

Egg‑layer with exemplary parental care. Lays eggs on smooth substrate near the anemone. The male tends and aerates the eggs for 7–10 days until they hatch. Breeding is possible in the aquarium.

Care Notes

Prefers a host anemone (Heteractis magnifica, Stichodactyla gigantea), but does well without one. Marine water with salinity 1.023‑1.025. Aquarium with live rock. Choose captive‑bred specimens (hardier and more environmentally responsible).

Compatibility

Peaceful with most marine fish. Territorial only around its host anemone. Compatible with the vast majority of reef fish. Avoid other clownfish in the same tank (except a bonded pair).

Quick Summary

Scientific NameAmphiprion ocellaris
FamilyPomacentridae
CategoryFish
Care LevelBeginner
Water TypeFreshwater
Max Size8.0 cm (3.1")
Min Tank120 L (32 gal)
Min Group2+
DietOmnivore. Accepts marine flakes, pellets, mysis, brine shrimp, frozen foods and quality pellets. Varied feeding recommended.
TemperamentTerritorial fish that forms stable pairs with a host anemone. The female is dominant and larger than the male. Protandrous hermaphrodite: all are born male and the dominant individual becomes female.

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