Clown Fish

Clownfish (Amphiprion spp.)

Overview

Clownfish (Amphiprion spp.) are small, colourful, and iconic reef fish known for their bright orange bodies with distinctive white bands outlined in black. Native to the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific, they are famously associated with sea anemones, with which they form a mutualistic relationship for protection and shelter.

Clownfish are hardy, adaptable, and display engaging personalities, making them a popular choice for both beginner and experienced marine aquarists.

Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 litres) for a pair

• Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.020–1.025

• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

• Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: < 10 ppm

• Aquascape: Provide live rock with crevices for shelter and, if desired, a host anemone for natural behavior

Clownfish thrive in established aquariums with stable water parameters and adequate hiding places.

Diet and Feeding

Clownfish are omnivorous and benefit from a varied diet:

• High-quality marine flakes or pellets

• Frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or chopped seafood

• Occasional live foods to stimulate natural hunting behavior

• Vegetable matter or algae-based foods for balanced nutrition

Feed small portions 2–3 times daily to maintain optimal health and coloration.

Temperament and Compatibility

Clownfish are generally peaceful but can become territorial, especially when paired or associated with anemones.

Tankmate Recommendations:

• Suitable: Peaceful community fish such as gobies, blennies, tangs, and wrasses

• Avoid: Aggressive or predatory species that may threaten clownfish

They can coexist in small groups if space and resources are sufficient.

Reef Compatibility

✅ Reef Safe

Clownfish are reef safe and do not harm corals or sessile invertebrates. They can even contribute to the health of host anemones in reef setups, though care should be taken to ensure the anemone’s requirements are met.

Additional Information

• Maximum Size: 7–12 cm (3–5 inches), depending on species

• Lifespan: 5–10 years with proper care

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

• Natural Behavior: Peaceful, territorial, forms symbiotic relationships with anemones

• Origin: Indo-Pacific reefs, including the Great Barrier Reef, Indonesia, and the Philippines

Clownfish (Amphiprion spp.) are hardy, visually striking, and active fish that bring personality, color, and natural behavior to reef and marine aquariums. With stable water parameters, a varied diet, and adequate shelter, they thrive as long-lived and engaging members of the aquarium community.