Clark's Anemonefish

Clark's anemonefish (Amphiprion clarkii), also known as the yellowtail anemonefish, has characteristic bright coloring. Coloration varies greatly by region: usually two wide white vertical stripes are noticeable (behind the eye and in the middle part of the body), sometimes an additional narrow white stripe is present at the base of the tail. The tail is more often white or yellow. The fins also have a yellow tint, sometimes with black edges. Coloration can vary depending on the region of habitation and the age of the individual.

Clark's anemonefish inhabits the Indo-West Pacific, including the Red Sea, the Great Barrier Reef, Micronesia, Polynesia, and Southeast Asia. It prefers to live in symbiosis with sea anemones on coral reefs at depths from 1 to 70 meters.

Clark's anemonefish is omnivorous. It feeds on algae, small invertebrates, zooplankton, and food remains from the anemone. Symbiotic relationships with anemones also help it receive protection from predators.

Clark's anemonefish are protandrous hermaphrodites, meaning they can change sex during their lifetime. In a group, the largest individual becomes a female, and the next largest becomes a male. They lay eggs on hard surfaces near the anemone, and the male guards and cares for the clutch until hatching, which occurs after 6-8 days.

Clark's anemonefish can become aggressive when defending their territory if they feel threatened. Bites can be unpleasant, but they are not poisonous and do not pose a serious threat.