Amphiprion nigripes

Datasheet

General Description

The Rose Skunk Clownfish, also known as the Maldive Anemonefish, belongs to the Amphiprion genus within the Pomacentridae family. These clownfish are typically found in the Western Indian Ocean, specifically in the Maldives and Sri Lanka. They are characterized by their striking pink/orange coloration and, in the case of the subgenus Phalerebus, a distinct white stripe along their back.

Aquarium Suitability

The Rose Skunk Clownfish is generally considered suitable for aquariums with care. They are known to be sensitive during transportation and acclimatization, making them delicate additions to the tank. This species is best kept in pairs, with one female and one male, or alternatively, one female with multiple males. They are territorial towards their own kind, and it is advisable to have only one pair per aquarium due to their aggressive nature towards similar species.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

Considered to be of average hardiness, the Rose Skunk Clownfish requires specific water conditions in the aquarium. They thrive in a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, a pH of 8.1-8.4, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025. Maintaining a carbonate hardness (KH) level of 8-12 is also recommended for their well-being.

Reef Suitability

These clownfish are known to be always reef safe, making them excellent choices for reef aquarium setups. While they can be aggressive towards other species that encroach on their territories, they generally coexist well within a reef environment.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Rose Skunk Clownfish, it is essential to provide adequate hiding spaces within live rocks or coral formations. These fish often associate with anemones as part of their natural behavior, so offering suitable alternatives like Hammercoral or Xenia can also serve as refuge spots. Maintaining stable water parameters and a balanced ecosystem is crucial for the well-being of the Rose Skunk Clownfish.

Behaviour

Rose Skunk Clownfish exhibit fascinating social behavior, especially during egg-carrying periods. They tend to form pairs and are known to become more aggressive when protecting their territory, especially when in the presence of anemones or during breeding activities.

Feeding and Diet

In terms of diet, Rose Skunk Clownfish are omnivores and require a varied diet to thrive. They feed on microalgae such as spirulina, small crustaceans like krill and mysis, and zooplankton such as cyclops and pods. Regular feeding several times a day is recommended to ensure their nutritional needs are met.

Dimorphism

One interesting aspect of the Rose Skunk Clownfish is their ability to change gender, with males sometimes transitioning into females. In this species, the female is generally larger in size. If considering breeding, these fish can be bred in captivity under the right conditions, providing an opportunity for enthusiasts to observe their unique reproductive behaviors.

Habitat and Distribution

Rose Skunk Clownfish are primarily found in the Maldives and Sri Lanka within the Western Indian Ocean. They are associated with anemones in the wild, though they can adapt to other coral structures for shelter. Understanding their natural habitat and distribution is essential in replicating a suitable environment within an aquarium setting.