Western Australia A. milii Clownfish Mated Pair

Amphiprion milii, also known as Clark’s anemonefish or the yellowtail clownfish, is a captivating marine fish belonging to the family Pomacentridae. These charming creatures form symbiotic relationships with sea anemones in the wild, remaining unaffected by the stinging tentacles of their host anemones. Let’s dive into the fascinating details of this delightful fish:

• Description:

  • Size: Clark’s anemonefish grows up to 10 centimeters (3.9 inches) as a male and 15 centimeters (5.9 inches) as a female.
  • Coloration: Their vivid stripes exhibit considerable geographical variation. Typically, they are black dorsally and orange-yellow ventrally, with age causing the black areas to widen. Two vertical white bands—one behind the eye and one above the anus—add to their distinctive appearance. The snout is orange or pinkish, and the dorsal and caudal fins are orange-yellow.

• Symbiosis with Sea Anemones:

  • In the wild, clownfish form mutualistic relationships with sea anemones. The anemone provides protection from predators and occasional food scraps, while the clownfish defend the anemone and keep it free from parasites.
  • Clark’s anemonefish is found in warmer waters of western Au, often inhabiting sheltered reefs or shallow lagoons.
  • Within a group of clownfish, a strict dominance hierarchy exists, with the largest and most aggressive fish being female.
  • Interestingly, only a male and a female in a group reproduce through external fertilization. These fish are also sequential hermaphrodites, transitioning from males to females as they mature.

• Breeding Patterns:

  • Observations of yellowtail clownfish breeding in a coral reef off the coast of the Philippines revealed a peak breeding season from November through May. Egg production increased up to the new moon and decreased after the full moon, following a seasonal pattern comparable to other temperate clownfish species.

Clark’s anemonefish is a true gem of the ocean, showcasing its vibrant colors and intricate behaviors. Whether in the wild or in aquariums, these delightful fish continue to captivate marine enthusiasts worldwide!