Clark's Clownfish (Amphiprion clarkii) Care Guide
The hardiest and most versatile of all clownfish species, found across the widest geographical range. Displays highly variable coloration from dark brown to bright yellow-orange with two or three whit…
Overview
Amphiprion clarkii is a species in the family Pomacentridae. The hardiest and most versatile of all clownfish species, found across the widest geographical range. Displays highly variable coloration from dark brown to bright yellow-orange with two or three white bands. Unique among clownfish for associating with all ten known host anemone species. Larger and more assertive than other clowns.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacentridae
- Genus: Amphiprion
- Scientific name: Amphiprion clarkii
- Other names: Yellowtail Clownfish, Clark's Anemonefish
- Origin: Indo-Pacific, Indian Ocean, Western Pacific
Habitat
The most widely distributed anemonefish, found from the Persian Gulf throughout the Indo-Pacific east to Micronesia and Melanesia. Uniquely uses all ten known host anemone species. Shows extreme regional colour variation between yellow, orange and dark forms.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 120 L
- Temperature: 23-28 °C
- pH: 8-8.4
- GH: 8-12 °dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Adult size: 10-15 cm
- Lifespan: 10-20 years
- Difficulty: beginner
Diet
Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.
Compatibility
- Temperament: semi-aggressive
- Swimming level: middle
- Compatible tank mates: Tangs, Wrasses, Angelfish, All Anemone Species
- Avoid with: Other Clownfish Species, Aggressive Damsels
Reef compatibility
Generally classified as reef-safe: does not feed on stony or soft corals, tridacnid clams or ornamental shrimps under normal conditions.
Breeding
- Breeding strategy: substrate-spawner
- Breeding difficulty: intermediate