Care Level: Easy

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Reef Compatible: Yes

General Description: The Saddleback Clownfish is found throughout the western Pacific, however individuals offered here at Aquatics Unlimited are mainly sourced from aquaculture. Saddleback clownfish are named after the slanted or saddle-shaped white bar across the middle of their body. There is considerable variation in the size and extension of this white bar on the body of the fish, in addition to overall body color of Saddleback clowns. Overall however, the majority of Saddleback clowns tend to be brown in color. Clownfish are well known for their interesting symbiotic relationships with anemones. A Saddleback clown will primarily associate with only three types of anemones: Carpet (Stichodactyla sp.), Sebae (Heteractis crispa), or Long Tentacle (Macrodactyla sp.). 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. Saddleback clownfish are one of the larger clownfish species, with females getting bigger than males, obtaining a size of approximately 5″. Clownfish come from the Pomacentridae family, which they share with Chromis and Damsels. Saddleback 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, Saddleback 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, Saddleback 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: 1-1/4″ to 1-3/4″; Medium: 1-3/4″ to 2″

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