The Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish (Premnas biaculeatus) is a color variant of the Maroon Clownfish, also known as the Spine-cheeked Anemonefish. It is found in the Indo-Pacific from western Indonesia to Taiwan and the Great Barrier Reef.

Distribution and Habitat

The Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish is found in the Malay Archipelago and Western Pacific Ocean. This variant is distinguished by its yellow or gold body bars instead of the typical white bars.

Physical Description

The Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish can grow up to 17 cm (6.7 in). Females are one of the largest anemonefish while males are much smaller. The body color ranges from maroon to dark brown in females, while males and juveniles are bright red-orange. The fish has three body bars which are yellow or gold in this variant. The characteristic spine on the cheek gives this species its common name.

Diet and Feeding

The Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish feeds on algae and zooplankton. In captivity it accepts a varied diet including flakes, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and pellets.

Behavior and Reproduction

This species is the most aggressive and territorial of all anemonefish. 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.