Clownfish are a great beginner’s fish. They have an interesting
undulating swimming pattern and a symbiotic relationship with anemones although,
they DO NOT need an anemone to prosper in the home aquarium. Most importantly,
almost every species is currently being bred in captivity making them an even
better choice. The captive-bred ones acclimate to their new homes rapidly, are
already used to consuming artificial foods, are environmentally conscience, and
are just as pretty.
Feeding/Diet
Clownfish will usually take to eating just about any food offered. A high
quality, dry, prepared food would be a good standard offering, supplemented by
some frozen foods. Frozen mysis shrimp, plankton, and bloodworms are all good
choices that should be offered once per week.
Compatibility
Clownfish, in general, do not tolerate other clownfish in their tanks. It
is best to have only one adult or a mated pair in your tank. If you get two
juvenile percula, ocellarris, or sebae clownfish, they will form a mated pair in
your tank when they grow into adulthood. The tomato, cinnamon, and maroon
clownfish are the most aggressive. All of the tank-raised species are usually
less aggressive than their wild counterparts. Angelfish, basslets, clownfish,
hawkfish, pseudochromis, tangs and small wrasses are all good choices.
Habitat
Clownfish are not too demanding of water quality or their habitat. They
do want something to hide in to feel secure. Again, an anemone is not necessary.
Clownfish can be housed in tanks as small as 30 gallons.
Best Bets
All of the clownfish species are hardy, but the tank-raised ones are even
tougher.
