The most widespread species in the genus Amphiprion clarkii is found right across the Indo-Pacific and occurs with a variety of giant sea anemones. Anemonefishes gain protection from predation among the stinging tentacles of anemones, and they are immune to being stung themselves, thanks to their special adaptation.
Details
§ 01
size
Common to 8 cm; max. 12 cm
color
Blackish with three white bars crossing head, body and caudal peduncle. There is considerable variation in the ratio of black to orange-yellow on the fins and ventral part of head and body.
order
Perciformes
family
Pomacentridae
habitat and biology
This species inhabits lagoons and the outer slopes of reefs up to 55 meters deep. It has a symbiotic relationship with a variety of anemones, usually consisting of one adult pair and a few juveniles per anemone. Its diet is omnivorous.
distinctive characters
The dorsal fin has 10 or 11 spines and 14-17 rays, the anal fin has 2 spines and 12-15 rays, and the pectoral rays range from 18-21. The body depth is 1.7-2.0 times the standard length.