Common Clownfish

Common Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) are some of the most well known fish in our care here at Blue Reef Aquarium Newquay. As the star of movie mega-hit, Finding Nemo, the clownfish is now synonymous with the lovable kids character. It isn’t just their Hollywood credentials that make them interesting, they possess many scientific facts that make them quite the well-rounded fish. 

How to Identify a Common Clownfish

While many would be able to easily identify a common clownfish, there are a few hallmarks that help you. They are relatively small in size, reaching up to 11 centimetres in length, with a vibrant orange coat complimented with white stripes. They can grow to a weight in between 42 and 70 grams, putting them on the smaller side. Their dainty size allows them to navigate through intricate structures and coral reefs with great ease.

Common Clownfish Interesting Facts

Find out some of the most interesting facts about common clownfish, including their relationship with anemones, how they reproduce, how they communicate and more.

Common Clownfish and Sea Anemones

One of the most interesting facts about common clownfish is around their relationship with sea anemones. While you may be aware that there is an affinity for anemones among clownfish from the movie Finding Nemo, do you know what the scientific reason is for their close relationship?

Sea anemones act as a safe haven for clownfish, but it is not a one-way thing. Clownfish also provide benefits for the anemones. This is called a symbiotic relationship, also known as mutualism. While the clownfish find protection in amongst the stinging tentacles of the anemone as well as receiving prey to hunt, they in return help the anemone in many ways. These include offering of food, ridding of harmful parasites and protecting the anemones from potential predators.

If you’re wondering how clownfish can live in harmony with anemones without being stung like many other fish, there is a good reason. Whilst initially the clownfish will expose itself to the sting, it does this to build and immune response in the form of a mucus layer. This layer on their coat allows them to glide in and around anemones as a result of building up this tolerance.

Groups of Clownfish are Lead by Females

All clownfish are born male, however the leader of the group is a dominant female. You may be wondering how and that is a very good question! Each group will have one female, who would have formally been male, who leads them and lays the eggs for more clownfish to spawn. They also have a ‘second-in-command’ male, who when the female leader dies, will transition into a female and assume the position of leader of the group.

How Common Clownfish Communicate

Common clownfish communicate with each other using a series of popping and clicking noises. This is usually done to establish their territory or even to attract a mate.