Care Level: Easy

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Reef Compatible: Yes

General Description: The Cheek Spot Gold Flake Maroon Clownfish is a designer clownfish variant of the Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish (Premnas biaculeatus). As juveniles, Cheek spot gold flake maroon clownfish will appear like a standard maroon clownfish. Over time as the fish matures however, its white stripes will transition to a gold color. This particular variant will also have a dot on its face, or cheek, as their names suggests. Clownfish are well known for their interesting symbiotic relationships with anemones. A Cheek spot gold flake maroon 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. Maroon clownfish in general are one of the larger clownfish species, with females getting larger than males, obtaining a size of approximately 6″. Clownfish come from the Pomacentridae family, which they share with Chromis and Damsels. Maroon clownfish are some of the most difficult to pair up, and it may be best to keep just a single individual to avoid peril.

Diet Requirements: 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 Cheek spot gold flake maroon clownfish; an established pair would require 75 gallons or greater. 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, Cheek spot gold flake maroon clownfish are thus variable in their computability because it often comes down to the individual’s temperament. 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: 1-1/2″ to 2″; Medium: 2-1/4″ to 2-3/4″

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