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Maroon Clownfish
Premnas biaculeatus
Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Pomacentridae
📍 Indo-Pacific coral reefs
The largest clownfish species, maroon-red with bold white stripes. Highly aggressive — best kept as a single specimen or bonded pair. One of the most striking reef fish available.
Care Guide
Diet
Maroon clownfish are omnivores that readily accept high-quality pellets and frozen mysis shrimp as staple foods. Supplement with occasional blanched vegetables and algae-based foods to ensure balanced nutrition. Feed small portions once daily, only what they can consume in 2-3 minutes.
Behavior
Highly territorial and aggressive, especially toward other clownfish and similar-sized fish. They are active swimmers that patrol their territory constantly and may nip at tank mates. Maroon clownfish form strong pair bonds if kept as a bonded pair, but single specimens are recommended for most aquariums.
Breeding
Breeding in captivity is possible but requires a dedicated pair and large tank (50+ gallons). Pairs will lay eggs on a flat surface near their host anemone and aggressively defend the clutch. Larvae are difficult to rear and require specialized rearing conditions; most hobbyists do not attempt captive breeding.
Tank Mates
May be attacked by maroon clownfish; only consider if tank is very large with ample space and hiding areas
Generally tolerated; provides beneficial cleaning services without competing for territory
Peaceful and unlikely to trigger aggression; occupies different tank zones
Harmless algae grazer that will not compete with clownfish or trigger territorial behavior
Peaceful herbivore that occupies lower tank zones; minimal interaction with clownfish
Common Diseases
Ich (Marine White Spot Disease)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, rubbing against surfaces, lethargy
Raise temperature to 28-29°C, maintain excellent water quality, use copper-based or formalin treatments; quarantine infected fish if possible
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fin edges, discoloration at fin margins, progressive fin loss
Perform frequent water changes, improve water quality, use antibiotic treatments or medicated food; ensure adequate nutrition
Velvet Disease (Oodinium)
Fine golden or rust-colored dust on body, rapid breathing, loss of appetite, scratching behavior
Raise temperature gradually to 28-29°C, reduce light exposure, use copper treatments or formalin; maintain pristine water conditions
Bacterial Infections
Open sores, cloudy eyes, swollen abdomen, loss of appetite, behavioral changes
Improve water quality immediately, use broad-spectrum antibiotics or medicated food, quarantine if severe; ensure proper nutrition
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Quick Facts
- pH
- 8.1–8.4
- diet
- omnivore — pellets, frozen mysis
- maxSize
- 6 inches
- minTankSize
- 30 gallons
- temperature
- 75–82°F (24–28°C)
Temperature
75–82°F
24–28°C