Clownfish

Amphiprion ocellaris

In aquarium and field guides, Amphiprion ocellaris is the ocellaris clownfish or false percula clownfish, the small orange reef fish with three white bars edged in black. It lives in the tropical Indo-Pacific and forms a mutual association with sea anemones, where a protective mucus layer allows the fish to shelter among stinging tentacles. Clownfish groups have a breeding female, a breeding male, and smaller nonbreeders; if the female disappears, the male can change sex and take her place. Captive-bred lines now include black, mocha, snowflake, and other aquarium morphs.

For marine aquarists, ocellaris clownfish are among the more forgiving saltwater fish, especially when purchased captive-bred. They do not require an anemone to thrive, and many will adopt coral, rockwork, or a bare corner instead, but they can become territorial once paired. Stable salinity, efficient filtration, and a varied diet of marine pellets and frozen foods matter more than providing a dramatic host anemone. Breeders value them because pairs spawn regularly on cleaned surfaces, and the larvae can be raised on rotifers and other small live foods by experienced keepers.