Clownfish

Darts

Clownfish

Amphiprion ocellaris

Orange with white bands. Paddles its pectoral fins and darts along in little bursts.

Group
Damselfishes
Family
Damselfishes (Pomacentridae)
Size
About 8–11 cm long
Habitat
Coral reefs of the eastern Indian Ocean and western Pacific

About

An orange body with three white bands edged in black. Famous as the model for a certain animated movie hero, it is one of the most familiar saltwater fish.

It is best known for living with sea anemones. A layer of mucus protects it from the stinging tentacles that other fish avoid. The anemone gives it shelter, and in return the clownfish cleans up leftovers and chases away fish that would nibble the anemone.

In each group the largest fish is female. When she is gone, the next-largest male changes sex and takes her place.

In Fish Around

This fish comes with the extension. It paddles its pectoral fins to dart forward in short bursts, then relaxes and drifts — just like the real thing.

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