The Clarkii clownfish( Amphiprion clarkii), also known as Clark’s anemonefish or the yellowtail clownfish, is a vibrant marine fish species in the family Pomacentridae. Known for its distinctive coloration and symbiotic relationship with sea anemones, A. clarkii is one of the most widespread and adaptable species within the genus Amphiprion, inhabiting a range of habitats from coral reefs to lagoons.
This species is known for their striking coloration, which varies with their environment, age, and geographic location. They typically have a dark brown to black body with three white bands across the head, mid-body, and tail, and a yellow caudal (tail) fin. The dorsal and pelvic fins are often tinged with yellow, adding to their distinctive appearance.
Clarkii clownfish maintain a mutualistic relationship with various species of sea anemones. The anemones offer them protection through their stinging cells, while the clownfish provide nutrients to the anemone and defend it against predators. Unlike most clownfish that are limited to one or two host anemone species, A. clarkii associates with over ten, including Heteractis magnifica and Stichodactyla gigantea. This species is omnivorous, feeding on plankton, algae, small crustaceans, and leftover food from their host anemones.
They are territorial, especially around other clownfish, and form social groups led by a dominant female. As protandrous hermaphrodites, they begin life as males but can change to females if the dominant female dies. Clarkii clownfish are monogamous, with females laying eggs on surfaces near their anemone, where the male guards them until they hatch. Larvae develop in the plankton layer before settling into an anemone, and they typically live 6–10 years in the wild, often longer in captivity. While not currently endangered, Clarkii clownfish face threats from habitat loss, climate change, and the aquarium trade.
