clown fish

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July 20, 2026

Quick Summary

The common clown fish (Amphiprion ocellaris) is a small, brightly colored fish known for its striking orange and white bands. These fish inhabit coral reefs in the tropical Pacific and Indian oceans.1

A key characteristic of the clown fish is its symbiotic relationship, or mutualism, with sea anemones. The anemone's stinging tentacles protect the clown fish from predators, while the fish cleans the anemone and may deter butterflyfish from eating its tentacles. Clown fish are also protected from the anemone's sting by a mucous coating.12

All clown fish are born with immature sex organs and can change sex. They live in social groups led by a breeding pair, with the female being the largest. Their diet consists of algae, small invertebrates, and parts of their host anemone.1

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Associations
…anemone fish (such as the clown fish). These fishes live within the protective field of anemone tentacles, where they take refuge when a predator threatens. Immunity of the fishes to the stings of the nematocytes results from the thin layer of mucus that covers their bodies. It is unclear whether…
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…anemone fish (such as the clown fish). These fishes live within the protective field of anemone tentacles, where they take refuge when a predator threatens. Immunity of the fishes to the stings of the nematocytes results from the thin layer of mucus that covers their bodies. It is unclear whether…
Read More