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Clownfish
Animal's Behavior
Clownfish live in small groups inhabiting a single anemone. The group consists of a breeding pair, which cohabit with a few non-reproductive, "pre-pubescent", and smaller male clownfish. When the female dies, the dominant male changes sex and becomes the female. This life history strategy is known as sequential hermaphroditism. Because clownfish are all born as males, they are protandrous hermaphrodites.
Eating Habits
Clownfish are omnivorous. They eat live food such as algae, plankton, molluscs, and crustacea in the wild. Although a clownfish's eating habits suggest behavior which is opportunistic rather than predatory, the clownfish hangs around waiting for the anemone to have dinner first before it dines on what's left, uneaten, undigested or excreted.
Range
Indo-Pacific oceanic region
Animal Facts
- There are 28 recognized species of clownfish.
Scientific Name
Amphiprion ocellaris
Classification
Animalia, Chordata, Actinopterygii, Perciformes, Pomacentridae
Place of Birth
Indo-Pacific oceanic region
Size
3.5 to 7 inches in length
Color
Yellow, orange, reddish, or blackish, with white bars or patches
Lifespan
4 to 8 years
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Where to See
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