Care Level: Easy

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Reef Compatible: Yes

General Description: The Tomato Clownfish is found throughout the Indo-Pacific and Fiji, however individuals offered here at Aquatics Unlimited are mainly sourced from aquaculture. As their name suggests, Tomato clownfish are red in color, with a distinct white stripe behind their eye. Tomato clownfish are not to be confused with Cinnamon Clownfish (A. melanopus) which is also red but develops a darker area of coloration in its body. Clownfish are well known for their interesting symbiotic relationships with anemones. A Tomato clown will primarily associate with only a Bubble Tip (Entacmaea sp.) anemone. Host anemones provide clownfish with protection and a site for nest building, while the anemone also benefits from its clownfish host in many ways. Interestingly, all clownfish are born male and the most dominant individual in the group will change to female, a process known as hermaphroditism. Tomato clownfish are one of the larger clownfish species, with females getting larger than males, obtaining a size of approximately 5″. Clownfish come from the Pomacentridae family, which they share with Chromis and Damsels. Tomato clownfish are more difficult to pair up compared to ocellaris and percula clownfish species.

Diet Requirements: In the wild clownfish are omnivorous. A varied diet of high quality algae, proteins, pellets, flakes, and enriched frozen foods are important for best coloration, immune function and optimal health. Clownfish are some of the unfussiest of saltwater livestock when it comes to feeding.

Care Requirements: A minimum 55 gallon aquarium is ideal for a single, or pair of, Tomato clownfish. A set-up with live rock is best for the health of the aquarium, and this clownfish will appreciate crevices to swim through and take refuge. Clownfish are one of the few groups of fish that can endure the break-in cycle of a new saltwater aquarium. An anemone host should only be added after the aquarium is biologically established. One of the larger and more territorial clownfish species, Tomato clownfish are thus variable in their compatability. We do not recommend keeping more than one pair of clownfish per aquarium, even in larger systems. We do not recommend mixing different genera of clownfish together. Clownfish are reef safe; they will not bother any coral or invertebrate. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.

Purchase Size: Small: 1″ to 2″; Medium: 2″ to 3″; Large: 3″ to 4″

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.