Picasso Clownfish Care Guide
The Picasso is a designer strain of Amphiprion ocellaris with abstract, irregular white markings; care matches the wild ocellaris clownfish.
Overview
The Picasso clownfish is a designer strain of Amphiprion ocellaris, family Pomacentridae. It shows abstract, irregular white markings instead of clean bars, and specimens are commonly graded from A to Premium according to how disconnected and elaborate the white pattern is. As a colour morph of A. ocellaris it follows the biology and care of the ocellaris clownfish.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacentridae
- Genus: Amphiprion
- Scientific name: Amphiprion ocellaris "Picasso"
- 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 Picasso strain is produced 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 that feeds 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. Picasso fish are propagated by pairing individuals carrying the pattern genes, with grades varying among offspring.