Barrier Reef Clownfish

The Barrier Reef Clownfish is an Australian endemic anemonefish found primarily along the Great Barrier Reef, the Coral Sea, and extending to New Caledonia and Lord Howe Island. Its body coloration ranges from brown to dark orange-brown, accented by two white vertical bars - one behind the eye and one at mid-body. The fins are often tipped with dusky brown to black, and the tail can range from yellow to brown depending on the individual's age and geographic origin. While not as vibrantly colored as some clownfish species, its subtle earth-toned beauty and Australian exclusivity make it a prized addition for collectors.

In the wild, the Barrier Reef Clownfish associates with Bubble Tip Anemones (Entacmaea quadricolor), Sebae Anemones (Heteractis crispa), and Magnificent Sea Anemones (Heteractis magnifica). It is found at depths ranging from 1 to 25 meters on reef slopes and lagoons, living in small social groups centered around a large dominant female. The species plays an important ecological role on Australian reefs, contributing to nutrient cycling around host anemones and defending them from anemone-eating predators such as butterflyfish.

The Barrier Reef Clownfish is a hardy and adaptable species well-suited to aquarium life. It is beginner-friendly, disease-resistant, and accepts all prepared foods readily. Like most clownfish, it can be semi-aggressive, particularly established females defending their territory or nesting site. A host anemone is appreciated but not required, and the species will readily adopt surrogate hosts such as torch corals or large mushroom corals in their absence.