Description
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:
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Coloration: Bright orange body with three white bands edged in black.
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Bands: The first band is behind the eyes, the second in the middle of the body, and the third near the tail.
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Size: Can grow up to 11 cm (4.3 inches) in length.
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Dorsal Fin Spines: Typically 10.
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Symbiotic Relationship: Lives in a symbiotic relationship with sea anemones, providing protection and receiving a safe habitat.
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Social Structure: Organized in size-based hierarchies within anemones.
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Sexual Dimorphism: Females are larger than males.