Origin

Native to Indo-Pacific, Red Sea, Australia, Indian Ocean. Most aquarium specimens are captive-bred.

Tank Temperature

75-82°F

pH

8.0-8.4

Specific Gravity

1.020-1.024

Feeding

Omnivorous; frozen, flakes, and pellets; be sure to include some plant matter.

Behavior

Becomes more aggressive with maturity; may be aggressive towards fish added to the tank after them.

Compatibility

Community and Coral Safe; Invert Safe, with caution; best kept alone or in pairs. Do not mix species. Use caution when housing with other Clownfish, Hogfish, and Triggers. Do not keep with Anglers/Frogfish, Eels, Groupers, Lionfish, Scorpionfish, Seahorses, and Pipefish.

Species Overview

Clownfish have always been saltwater aquarium favorites. Their recognizable coloration and bold stripes are the perfect compliment to the quirky behaviors and habits that make them hard not to love. Smooth, rounded fins and faces only make them more irresistible.

Keeping clownfish in a home aquarium is relatively easy. They will take almost every type of marine food available and have very few demands. Clownfish are sensitive to copper-based medications, but are considerably hardy otherwise. These fish are generally peaceful when they are young. They tend to become more aggressive and/or territorial as they mature, and may be aggressive towards fish added to the tank after they are established. It usually is not recommended to keep multiple clownfish (of the same species or others) in the same tank, unless you can purchase a mated pair.

Clownfish are all born male. The largest clownfish in a group will develop into a female, while the rest remain male. If the female dies or is removed from the group, another male will change into a female. By choosing a large individual and a small individual to keep together, you have better odds of the two forming a pair. We also suggest purchasing tank-raised clownfish instead of wild-caught clownfish. Tank-raised clownfish often adapt better to a tank environment, tend to be more disease resistant, and they're more eco-friendly (native clownfish populations remain on native reefs).

Clownfish and Anemones

Clownfish or Anemonefish may be best known for the unique symbiotic bonds they form with sea anemones. Although it is certainly enjoyable to watch a clownfish interacting with an anemone, it is not necessary for the survival of your clown. Host anemones require high output aquarium lighting, ample water circulation and other special care. While we do not recommend anemones for a beginner aquarist, our expert staff can help you to prepare your tank to house an anemone and to choose the right type when you're ready. Not all anemones are right for clownfish! Also, keep in mind that since tank-raised clowns are born and raised in tanks, it may take some time for then to approach and bond with an anemone. Some may catch on to hosting right away, but some take months or years. See our article Clownfish & Anemone Preference for recommendations on the proper anemone species for common clownfish species. 

We always suggest that you do further research before adding a new pet to your tank. What we have provided for you are guidelines and suggestions. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact our fish room at 717-299-5691 ext. 1213 or marinebio@thatpetplace.com.

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