The false clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) belongs to the genus of anemone fish and is also known as the orange ringed anemonefish.
It lives, among other things, in the reefs of Southeast Asia as well as the coasts of north-western Australia. Due to the film «Finding Nemo», the fish has gained wide popularity and has become the most popular saltwater fish in aquariums. It can be recognized by its orange body and three white stripes surrounded by black. But be careful, there is a risk of confusion: the real clownfish looks similar to the false clownfish.
It is distinguished by the more pronounced black edges in its grain. Another factor in the orange ringed anemonefish’s popularity is its ease of keeping. With its low demands, it is ideally suited as a beginner’s fish. The special thing about him: he lives in symbiosis with sea anemones. In nature, they protect each other from predators.
The gender differences
The anemonefish is a protandrous hermaphrodite: it is born male but can change sex. The female is the more dominant animal, which is why the largest fish in a pair or group always becomes the female. The female can therefore be recognized by the fact that she is larger, while the male has a smaller stature. In larger groups there is always only one female to be found, as the fish form a harem community.
Things to know about breeding
The starting point for breeding is a pair where one fish is larger and the other smaller. From about one to one and a half years, the A. ocellaris becomes sexually mature and the female forms. If the pair harmonizes with each other, it spawns about every ten to fourteen days over a longer period of time. The spawning area is thoroughly cleaned by both partners before the female starts laying the eggs and the male starts inseminating. It is important that the fresh brood, in contrast to the parents, does not tolerate any water currents. Accordingly, she must be kept in a hatchery tank of about 100 liters, which is equipped with a heater and light source. In the first 6-10 days the juveniles feed on phytoplankton until they are able to digest Artemia.
socialization
In order to live according to its natural instincts, the Orangering Anemonefish should always be kept as a pair with an anemone. It is one of the most peaceful anemone fish, which is why living together with other fish species is not a problem for it. However, another pair of clownfish should only be used from a tank size of 500 liters.
Further questions
Which anemone is suitable?
The clownfish accepts the giant anemone (Stichodactyla gigantea), the splendor anemone (Heteractis magnifica) and the Merten’s anemone (Stichodactyla mertensii) as symbiosis partners.
How long does it take for the clownfish to go into the anemone?
The adjustment phase can take several weeks. The fish seeks the protection of the anemone, especially in dangerous situations, and often has no reason to approach it in a peaceful tank.