Red Saddleback Clownfish

The red saddleback clownfish is recognized by the large black blotch on the rear flanks of its orange-red body, below the dorsal fin. Adults have no white bar; in juveniles the white bar behind the eye disappears as they grow. This feature distinguishes it from the tomato and melanopus clownfish, which carry a white bar on the head. The saddleback clownfish on the site (Amphiprion polymnus) is a different species. In the wild it lives in silty coastal waters and sheltered bays with Entacmaea quadricolor and Heteractis crispa anemones; aquarium-bred individuals are also available.

• At least 150 liters for a pair.
• Salinity specific gravity 1.023–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–27°C.
• Reef-safe: it leaves corals and invertebrates alone.
• An anemone is not essential; if desired, the bubble-tip anemone (Entacmaea quadricolor) is the most suitable host.

Omnivorous. Make marine fish granules and flake food the staple; vary the diet with frozen mysis, brine shrimp and foods containing algae. Feed twice a day.

The pair fiercely defends its anemone or chosen corner; the female is large and territorial. Outside its territory it usually leaves other fish alone.

Good companions: Tangs, dwarf angelfish, wrasses, cardinalfish, dottybacks, cleaner shrimp.

Avoid: Other clownfish, damsels, timid small gobies (in a small aquarium), predators such as lionfish.