The Captive-Bred Cinnamon Clownfish (Amphiprion melanopus), also known as the Fire Clownfish or Red and Black Anemonefish, is a captive-bred variant of a widely distributed anemonefish found chiefly in the western and southern parts of the Pacific Ocean.

Distribution and Habitat

The Cinnamon Clownfish is widely distributed in the western Pacific from the Great Barrier Reef north to the Marshall Islands and Guam, New Guinea, and from Vanuatu and New Caledonia to eastern Indonesia.

Physical Description

The Cinnamon Clownfish grows to 12 cm (4.7 in). The body is dark red to orange with mahogany sides. Juveniles and adults have a white head band which is wide and starts behind the eye with a blue tint. The pelvic and anal fins are usually black.

Diet and Feeding

The Cinnamon Clownfish is omnivorous, feeding on zooplankton, small benthic crustaceans, and algae. In captivity it accepts a varied diet including flakes, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, algae, and pellets.

Behavior and Reproduction

This species is semi-aggressive and may become territorial once established. It is a sequential hermaphrodite with a strict size-based dominance hierarchy.

Aquarium Care

It requires a tank of at least 30 gallons. It is considered reef-safe.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.