Clark's Clownfish

Clark's Clownfish is one of the most widespread and versatile clownfish species in the world, found across the entire Indo-Pacific region from the Persian Gulf and Red Sea to the islands of Micronesia and Melanesia. This remarkable geographic range has produced a tremendous variety of color morphs, with individuals displaying combinations of yellow, orange, brown, and black body coloration, always accented by two or three bold white bars. The tail fin is typically bright yellow regardless of body color, which gives rise to the common name Yellowtail Clownfish. This species is larger and more robust than many other clownfish, with females reaching up to 5.5 inches in captivity.

In the wild, Clark's Clownfish is the most adaptable of all anemonefish when it comes to host selection. It has been documented associating with all ten known species of host anemones, a distinction no other clownfish species can claim. This generalist approach extends to aquarium life, where Clark's Clownfish readily accepts Bubble Tip Anemones, Carpet Anemones, and Sebae Anemones, among others. It is also perfectly content without a host anemone, often adopting coral colonies, powerheads, or other structures as substitute homes.

As one of the hardiest marine fish available, Clark's Clownfish is an excellent choice for beginning aquarists. It tolerates a wide range of water parameters, eagerly accepts all prepared foods from the moment of introduction, and is highly resistant to common marine diseases. However, prospective keepers should be aware that this species is more assertive than the gentler Ocellaris or Percula clownfish. Mature females can become quite territorial and may bully smaller, more passive tankmates. Best kept as a mated pair, Clark's Clownfish breeds readily in captivity and is widely available as captive-bred specimens in a variety of regional color variants.