Clownfish (Amphiprion)

Among the most iconic and resistant marine fish. They live in symbiosis with anemones but in the aquarium they also adapt without them. Ideal for those starting with the reef.

Detailed explanation

Clownfish (genus Amphiprion and Premnas) became famous thanks to the animated film that everyone knows. But their popularity in aquariums goes back much further: they are among the easiest marine fish to breed.

There are approximately 30 species of clownfish. The most common in the aquarium are Amphiprion ocellaris (the classic orange with three white bands), A. percula (very similar to the ocellaris), A. clarkii (the most robust and adaptable) and Premnas biaculeatus (maroon clownfish, with a more aggressive temperament).

The symbiosis with anemones is their most fascinating trait. The clownfish covers itself in mucus which makes it immune to the nematocysts (stinging cells) of the anemone. In exchange for protection, the fish defends the anemone from predators and brings it food.

In the aquarium, anemones (Entacmaea quadricolor, Heteractis magnifica) require more care than the clownfish themselves. They need intense light, perfect water and often move around the aquarium, damaging the corals they touch. Many aquarists breed clownfish without anemone: they adapt very well and often adopt a surrogate (a coral, a pump, or a corner of the aquarium).

Clownfish bred in captivity (captive bred) are always preferable to wild ones. They are healthier, already accustomed to dry food and their capture does not impact the coral reefs. In Italy there are breeders who produce ocellaris and designer clownfish in different colour varieties.

A pair of clowns can live in a 60-litre nano aquarium. They form monogamous pairs with a larger dominant female and a smaller male. If the female dies, the male changes sex and becomes female. This is one of the most surprising biological curiosities of the marine world.

Feeding is simple: good quality flakes or granules, frozen mysis, artemia.

Related terms