Oman Anemonefish Care Guide
Amphiprion omanensis is an anemonefish known only from the Arabian Sea coast of Oman, reaching about 14 cm and hosting in two anemone species.
Overview
Amphiprion omanensis is a marine anemonefish of the family Pomacentridae with a very restricted range along the Arabian Sea coast of Oman. The body is dark brown with two narrow white bars, blackish pelvic and anal fins, and a forked caudal fin that is blackish in juveniles and fades toward white in adults. The species is rare in the aquarium trade.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacentridae
- Genus: Amphiprion
- Scientific name: Amphiprion omanensis
- Common name: Oman anemonefish
Habitat
The species is known only from the Arabian Sea coast of Oman, where populations near the northern and southern limits are separated by roughly 400 km. FishBase records it as a non-migratory, reef-associated fish inhabiting inshore reefs at depths of about 2-10 m. It hosts in two anemone species: Entacmaea quadricolor and Heteractis crispa. Larvae undergo a pelagic phase of under three weeks, with dispersal influenced by prevailing currents.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 150 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness (dKH): 8-12
- Specific gravity: 1.024-1.026
- Maximum size: about 14 cm
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
Reef compatibility
Amphiprion omanensis is reef-safe and does not damage corals or invertebrates. A host anemone such as Entacmaea quadricolor or Heteractis crispa is appreciated but not essential for captive care.
Diet
The species is omnivorous, feeding on plankton and algae in the wild. In aquaria it accepts marine pellets, frozen mysis and enriched brine shrimp, offered about twice daily.
Compatibility
It is semi-aggressive and defends a territory around its host. Suitable companions include tangs, royal gramma, wrasses and cleaner shrimp, while other clownfish species and aggressive triggerfish should be avoided. Keep one bonded pair per anemone.
Breeding
The species is oviparous with distinct pairing during breeding. Demersal eggs adhere to the substrate and are guarded and aerated by the male. Newly hatched larvae have well-developed swimming and sensory abilities before their short pelagic phase.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern, assessed in 2010.