The Black and White Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris), also known as the False Percula Clownfish or Common Clownfish. It is one of the most popular marine aquarium fish.

Distribution and Habitat

The Ocellaris Clownfish is found in the Eastern Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean. It typically lives in small groups on outer reef slopes or in sheltered lagoons at a maximal depth of 15 meters. It inhabits three different species of sea anemones and has symbiotic relationships with them.

Physical Description

The Ocellaris Clownfish grows up to 11 cm (4.3 in) long. The Black and White variant has a black body with three vertical white stripes outlined with a fine black line instead of the typical orange coloration. It has a stocky appearance and oval shape, compressed laterally with a round profile.

Diet and Feeding

The Ocellaris Clownfish feeds on plankton and algae, thus it is considered an omnivore. In captivity it accepts a varied diet including flakes, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and pellets.

Behavior and Reproduction

The Ocellaris Clownfish is a protandrous hermaphrodite, meaning the male can change its sex to female during its life. It lives in a harem with an established dominance hierarchy. It is aggressively territorial and is completely dependent on its sea anemone. It forms monogamous mating pairs.

Aquarium Care

This species is semi-aggressive and territorial. It requires a tank of at least 20 gallons with abundant live rock. It is considered reef-safe. It can be kept in pairs or small groups.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.