Clownfish

Clownfish
are hands down the most popular fish in saltwater aquariums because of their striking coloration, interesting behavior, and general resistance.

Clownfish are among the most recognizable marine species - even children are familiar with its bright colors and bold white stripes (especially with the recent popularity of the animated film Finding Nemo). They are mostly found in the Indo-Pacific waters, where they form a fascinating symbiotic relationship with sea anemones

Clownfish live among the stinging tentacles of the anemone, but are not injured because of a secretion that covers their body. In this way, they are protected against predators and in return they keep the anemone clean from algae, debris and any leftover food.

Most species are small, more and more than 3 to 5 inches in length. They feed on algae, plankton and small invertebrates. Clownfish usually live in pairs or small groups of a dominant female, neutral male fish and several subordinates.

Keeping an anemone living in the aquarium at home is very difficult - but fortunately, Clownfish do just fine without. These fish are strong and getting along with most other marine species. Clownfish eagerly accept all types of food and they should be offered a varied diet of meat dishes and vegetables to both products. They can be kept in pairs or small groups, but it is better to keep only one type of species per tank to avoid quarrels.

Compared to most marine species Clownfish are considered "easy" to reproduce. These remarkable fish are hermaphrodites. Depending on their position in a group, a Clownfish will either 1) a woman, the largest and dominant fish or 2) a male reaches sexual maturity or 3) a neutral or immature fish. If the female dies, the male becomes a female, the other more senior male fish becomes sexually mature and everyone moves up the chain of command.

Clownfish are generally sold in "coupled" two or they can be purchased in groups and allowed to form their own female / male hierarchy. reproduction of fish is generally clean and prepare a flat surface where the female will lay her eggs.

The male will then fertilize the eggs and the pair stand guard until they hatch. After one week, the eggs hatch and the fry should be removed from their own tank. They will need to be fed small animals called rotifers until they are old enough to be fed baby brine shrimp.