Animal Spotlight
Clownfish
Amphiprion sp.
Symbiotic Anemone Dwellers
Also known as clown anemonefish, clownfish are orange fish with white stripes that live in symbiotic relationships with anemones. Territorial defenders of their host, they stay close to their anemone, rarely moving more than 30 cm away, protected but unharmed by its stinging tentacles.
All clownfish are born male, but once they mature and pair off, the dominant, larger partner becomes female and lays eggs, which they both protect. A typical harem that lives within the anemone is made up of a breeding pair and up to four juveniles. They are social and communicate by popping and clicking.
Habitat
Indo-Pacific Ocean in tropical marine habitats associated with rocky or coral reefs
Diet
Small invertebrates, zooplankton, and algae, as well as food scraps left behind by anemones
Predators
Larger fish such as lionfish, snapper, grouper, triggers, and eels
Conservation Status
Least concern
Phylum
Chordata
Meet the Neighbors
The colorful clownfish are neighbors with a variety of sea life, including the a loggerhead sea turtle and Napoleon (or Māori) wrasse who inhabitat the Heart of the Sea along with a variety of Indo-Pacific sea life.
Napoleon Wrasse
Also known as a humphead or Māori wrasse, the Napoleon wrasse is one of the largest reef fish in the world, but that’s not the only thing about this captivating fish that turns heads.
Loggerhead Sea Turtle
Named for their large heads (which sport powerful jaws meant for eating hard-shelled prey), loggerhead sea turtles can live up to 80 years and average 250 pounds.
Ready to Visit?
See a Napoleon wrasse, blue speckled grouper, spotted unicornfish, a loggerhead sea turtle, and more in this Indo-Pacific habitat.