The Amphiprion percula, commonly known as the orange clownfish or percula clownfish, is a small, brightly colored marine fish characterized by its orange body and three distinctive white bands outlined in black. These bands are located behind the eyes, in the middle of the body (often with a forward-bulging section), and near the tail. The fins are also edged with black. They are often confused with the similar-looking Amphiprion ocellaris, but can be distinguished by the number of dorsal fin spines (10 in A. percula vs. 11 in A. ocellaris) and the thickness of the black outlining on the white bands.
Key Characteristics:
Coloration: Bright orange body with three white bands edged in black.
Bands: The first band is behind the eyes, the second in the middle of the body, and the third near the tail.
Size: Can grow up to 11 cm (4.3 inches) in length.
Dorsal Fin Spines: Typically 10.
Symbiotic Relationship: Lives in a symbiotic relationship with sea anemones, providing protection and receiving a safe habitat.
Social Structure: Organized in size-based hierarchies within anemones.
Sexual Dimorphism: Females are larger than males.
The ocellaris clownfish, or Amphiprion ocellaris, is a vibrant marine fish known for its striking orange body, three white bands, and black outlines. These fish, also called false percula clownfish or common clownfish, form a symbiotic relationship with sea anemones, using their mucus-covered skin to avoid being stung by the anemone's tentacles.
Physical Characteristics:
Color: Primarily bright orange with three distinct white bands.
Bands: The white bands are usually outlined in black. The middle band often has a rounded bulge in the middle.
Size: Typically grow to about 3-5 inches (8-11 cm) in length.
Fins: Black markings on the fins, particularly the dorsal fin, are common.
Other Notable Features:
Symbiotic Relationship:
They have a mutually beneficial relationship with sea anemones, living among their tentacles for protection from predators.
Protective Mucus:
A special layer of mucus on their skin protects them from the anemone's stinging cells.
Protandrous Hermaphrodites:
All begin life as males and can change to females as they mature, with the largest fish in a group typically being female.
Regional Variations:
While typically orange, some can be darker red-orange or even black with white bands, depending on their location.
