Amphiprion ephippium

Datasheet

General Description

The Red Saddle Clownfish, also known as Saddle anemonefish or Amphiprion ephippium, belongs to the Pomacentridae family specifically in the Amphiprioninae group. These fish display a distinct white spot above the eye when young, with less noticeable dark markings. They are native to the Eastern Indian Ocean, inhabiting regions such as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Thailand, Malaysia, and Java and Sumatra in Indonesia.

Aquarium Suitability

Amphiprion ephippium is considered suitable for most aquarium setups. They are recognized as hardy fish and can adapt well to tank conditions. However, their territorial nature makes them aggressive towards similar species, so caution should be exercised when introducing other fish into the tank.

Care and Hardiness

Red Saddle Clownfish are generally hardy and easy to care for in aquariums. They are best kept in pairs, with a male and female or two males to one female to avoid aggression issues. Maintaining a suitable water temperature between 22.2-25.6°C (72-78°F) and stable water parameters within the range of pH 8.1-8.4 and specific gravity of 1.020-1.025 is crucial for their well-being.

Reef Suitability

Amphiprion ephippium is deemed reef-safe and can thrive well in a reef aquarium setup. They are known to establish territories and may exhibit aggression towards other fish that encroach on their space, particularly when they have anemones or are carrying eggs.

Aquarium Setup

Setting up a tank for Red Saddle Clownfish should include suitable hiding spots and anemones or corals for shelter. They thrive in reef environments and prefer a tank size of a minimum of 150 liters. Maintaining good water quality, proper filtration, and providing adequate hiding spaces are essential for their overall well-being.

Behaviour

These clownfish exhibit territorial behavior, enjoying having their own space in the tank. They are known to become more aggressive when defending their territory, especially in the presence of anemones or during breeding periods. Ensuring they have designated areas to retreat to can help reduce aggression levels.

Feeding and Diet

Amphiprion ephippium primarily feed on microalgae, small crustaceans like krill and mysis, and zooplankton such as Cyclops and pods. Offering a varied diet rich in nutrients is essential to meet their dietary requirements and maintain their health in captivity.

Dimorphism

Red Saddle Clownfish exhibit sexual dimorphism, with females typically being larger than males. Interestingly, they have the ability to change gender, with males transitioning into females. Captive breeding of these clownfish is possible, making them a potential choice for those interested in breeding fish in a controlled environment.

Habitat and Distribution

In their natural habitat, Amphiprion ephippium can be found in Indonesia, where they inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often seeking refuge in sea anemones. Their distribution spans across various regions in the Eastern Indian Ocean, with populations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Thailand, Malaysia, and select areas in Indonesia.