False Percula Clown Fish - Amphiprion ocellaris
General Information
The False Percula, or Ocellaris, Clown fish is a great addition to any reef tank. They are among the easiest marine fish to keep, and are a good first fish for beginners. They are as hardy, but not nearly as aggressive, as the common damsels that are often recommended to people starting out in this hobby, but they do not possess the bad habits that make the damsels a sometimes difficult fish to keep later on.
Environment
The Clown fish will live singly or in pairs given a suitable size tank. A single clown is suitable for the most common sizes of nano tank, 7 - 10 gallons, as long as the water parameters are kept sufficient. Like most marine fish, the Clown fish will not tolerate living in an environment that contains ammonia or nitrites, and will not tolerate high levels of nitrates. A comfortable temperature of 78-82 degrees needs to be maintained, and neither temperature nor ph levels should vary much during the course of a day.
Diet
The Amphiprion ocellaris is an omnivore, and is relatively easy to feed in the aquarium. The majority of specimens will accept flake, pellet, or frozen food, as well as eating amphipods and copepods that exist in the tank.
About Anemones
Certainly one of the most interesting things about clown fish is how they interact with anemones. Unfortunately, keeping these delicate invertebrates is a task best left to those with plenty of experience. Not only do they require intense lighting and near perfect water conditions, they tend to wander the tank searching for a perfect spot, and can damage other corals in the process with their powerful stings. In addition, they may also eat other fish. However, if you can provide for their needs, it is fascinating to watch clown fish "hosting" in an anemone.
Natural Anemone Hosts of Amphiprion ocellaris
- Stichodactyla gigantea, Giant Carpet Anemone
- Stichodactyla mertensi, Merten's Carpet Anemone
- Heteractis magnifica, Magnificent Anemone, Ritteri Anemone
Last Update
December 28, 2003
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content copyright © 2003,2004 by Zachary Fox except where noted