Amphiprion ocellaris – Domino Clownfish (4+ cm)

Overview
The Domino Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris variant) is a striking and hardy marine species, instantly recognizable by its bold jet-black body accented with crisp white bars. The “Domino” name comes from its dark coloration, resembling a domino tile, making it one of the most eye-catching clownfish varieties in the reef hobby. Highly adaptable and easy to care for, this fish is a perfect choice for both beginner and experienced marine aquarists. Known for its peaceful temperament, it thrives in community reef aquariums and can form fascinating symbiotic relationships with sea anemones.

Size

• Adult length: ~3–4 inches (7–10 cm).

• Compact, oval-shaped body with distinctive white stripes.

Behavior & Social Needs

• Generally peaceful but may show mild territorial behavior when mature.

• Can be kept singly, in pairs, or small harems in larger aquariums.

• Best tankmates include other peaceful reef-safe fish such as gobies, firefish, wrasses, and tangs. Avoid aggressive species that may harass clownfish.

• May host with anemones (e.g., Heteractis magnifica, Stichodactyla gigantea), though an anemone is not required for their health.

Tank Conditions

• Minimum tank size: 20+ gallons for a pair.

• Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C).

• pH: 8.1–8.4.

• Salinity: 1.020–1.025 SG.

• Setup suggestions: Reef-safe environment with live rock, hiding crevices, and open swimming space. Moderate water flow and strong filtration are recommended.

Diet

• Omnivorous: Accepts a wide variety of foods.

• Ideal diet includes high-quality marine pellets, flakes, frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

• Supplement with algae-based foods to support nutrition and coloration.

Lifespan & Hardiness

• Very hardy and resilient, making it excellent for beginners.

• Average lifespan: 8–12 years in captivity with proper care.

• Disease-resistant compared to many other marine species.