Domino Ocellaris Clownfish Care Guide
The Domino Ocellaris is a mostly-black designer Amphiprion ocellaris with three small white spots; care follows the ocellaris clownfish.
Overview
The Domino Ocellaris clownfish is a designer strain of Amphiprion ocellaris, family Pomacentridae. The body is mostly black with three small white spots, a pattern that gives the strain its name. As a colour morph of A. ocellaris it shares the biology and care of the ocellaris clownfish, differing only in coloration.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacentridae
- Genus: Amphiprion
- Scientific name: Amphiprion ocellaris "Domino"
- Base species describer: Cuvier, 1830
Habitat
Wild Amphiprion ocellaris occurs in the Indo-West Pacific, on outer reef slopes and sheltered lagoons to about 15 m depth, associating with host anemones such as Heteractis magnifica, Stichodactyla gigantea and Stichodactyla mertensii. The Domino strain is bred in captivity.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 100 L (26 gal)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Specific gravity: 1.024-1.026
- Carbonate hardness: 8-12 dKH
- Adult size: 7-10 cm (2.8-3.9 in)
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
Diet
Amphiprion ocellaris is an omnivore, feeding on zooplankton, copepods and algae in the wild. Captive-bred designer fish accept prepared marine foods, frozen rations and quality flakes or pellets, fed two times daily.
Compatibility
Ocellaris clownfish are territorial but peaceful enough for reef communities. Compatible tankmates include royal gramma, firefish and cleaner shrimp, while lionfish, triggerfish and large angelfish should be avoided.
Reef compatibility
The strain is reef-safe and does not damage corals or invertebrates. A host anemone is optional in captivity.
Breeding
As a protandrous hermaphrodite, the dominant fish of a pair becomes female. Ocellaris are demersal egg layers that guard their eggs, which hatch in about six to eight days. The dark, spotted pattern is reinforced through pairings within the melanistic line.