Quick Facts
- Type
- Fish
- Size
- 7–11 cm long
- Weight
- About 20–30 g
- Habitat
- Coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific
- Diet
- Algae, plankton, and small invertebrates
- Active Time
- Active by day (diurnal)
- Lifespan
- 6–10 years
Field Notes
- Clownfish are immune to the sting of the anemones they live in.
- They are all born male; the dominant one becomes female and can switch back if needed.
- The fish and anemone help each other in a partnership called mutualism.
About the Clown Anemonefish
The clown anemonefish is a small, brightly colored reef fish of the warm Indo-Pacific, famous for its orange body crossed by white bands. It lives among the stinging tentacles of sea anemones, protected by a special mucus coating, in a partnership that benefits both: the fish gains shelter while keeping the anemone clean and chasing off threats. Clownfish live in small groups led by a dominant female. Remarkably, all clownfish are born male, and if the female dies, the largest male changes sex to take her place.
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