False Clown Anemonefish
Amphiprion ocellaris · am-fih-PRY-on oh-sel-AIR-is
diurnalpairsLeast Concern
Friendly
Superpower
A slime coat lets it live unharmed among an anemone's stinging tentacles.
At a glance
- Size
- typically 8 cm, up to 11 cm
- Lifespan
- 6–10 years
- Depth
- 1–15 m
Habitat
Sheltered reefs and lagoons, always near a host sea anemone.
Diet
Algae, plankton and small invertebrates.
Can I eat it?
No — this one is not eaten.
Fun facts
- This is the 'Nemo' fish, made famous by the movies.
- It is immune to its host anemone's sting thanks to a special mucus.
- All clownfish are born male; the dominant one becomes female.