Clown anemonefish
(Amphiprion ocellaris)
General data
The ocellaris clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris), also known as the false percula clownfish or common clownfish, is a marine fish belonging to the family Pomacentridae, which includes clownfishes and damselfishes.
Amphiprion ocellaris are found in different colors, depending on where they are located. For example, black Amphiprion ocellaris with white bands can be found near northern Australia, Southeast Asia, and Japan.
Orange or red-brown Amphiprion ocellaris also exist with three similar white bands on the body and head.
Amphiprion ocellaris can be distinguished from other Amphiprion species based on the number of pectoral rays and dorsal spines.
Amphiprion ocellaris are known to grow about 110 mm long. Like many other fish species, females are, however, larger than males.
The life cycle of Amphiprion ocellaris varies in whether they reside at the surface or bottom of the ocean. When they initially hatch, they reside near the surface. However, when Amphiprion ocellaris enter into the juvenile stage of life, they travel down to the bottom to find shelter in a host anemone. Once they find their anemone, they form a symbiotic relationship with them.
