Clark’s Clownfish, scientifically known as Amphiprion clarkii, is one of the many species of clownfish found in the tropical waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Known for their vibrant colors and symbiotic relationship with sea anemones, clownfish are among the most recognizable and popular marine fish, especially in the aquarium trade.
Appearance: Clark’s Clownfish typically have a dark brown or black base color with white bands. They have two white bands: one behind the eye and another in the middle of the body. The tail fin might be white or yellow, and some variations might have a yellowish hue on the head or body. Like other clownfish, they exhibit sexual dimorphism, with females being larger than males.
Distribution & Habitat: Clark’s Clownfish are found across a wide range in the Indo-Pacific, from the Persian Gulf to Western Australia, and up through Southeast Asia to Taiwan and southern Japan. They inhabit lagoons and outer reef slopes where they live in a symbiotic relationship with various species of sea anemones.
Diet & Behavior:
- Diet: They feed on small zooplankton, algae, and the tentacles and mucus of their host anemone. In captivity, they can be fed a varied diet of high-quality marine pellets, flake food, frozen mysis shrimp, and brine shrimp.
- Behavior: Like all clownfish, Clark’s Clownfish form a symbiotic relationship with sea anemones. The anemone provides the fish with protection from predators, while the clownfish provides food for the anemone. Clark’s Clownfish are known to host a broader range of anemones compared to other clownfish species.
Aquarium Care:
- Tank Size: A tank of at least 30 gallons is recommended for a pair.
- Tank Mates: While they are generally peaceful, clownfish can be territorial, especially around their host anemone. It’s best to avoid housing them with aggressive species or other types of clownfish to prevent territorial disputes.
- Environment: If you’re keeping an anemone for the clownfish, ensure the tank conditions are suitable for the anemone species as well. Proper lighting, water flow, and water parameters are crucial.
- Water Parameters: Temperature (74-79°F or 23-26°C), pH (8.1-8.4), specific gravity (1.020-1.025), and regular checks for ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates are essential.
- Reproduction: Clark’s Clownfish are protandrous hermaphrodites, meaning all individuals start as males and the dominant fish in a group will change into a female. If the female dies or is removed, the dominant male will then become a female.
Conclusion: Clark’s Clownfish are hardy and can be an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Their intriguing behavior, especially their interaction with anemones, makes them a captivating species to observe in a marine aquarium.
