The clown anemonefish is one of the best-known reef fish, living in partnership with sea anemones on Indo-Pacific reefs.
Interesting facts
- A mucus coating protects clownfish from their host anemone’s stinging cells.
- Clownfish and anemones have a mutualistic relationship.
- The film Finding Nemo made the species famous.
- Clownfish rarely stray far from their anemone.
- They communicate with popping and clicking sounds.
- Ocean acidification may impair their sense of smell.
Behaviour
Clownfish live in small groups in a single anemone, with a strict size-based hierarchy.
Breeding and young
The female lays eggs on a rock near the anemone, and the male guards and fans them until they hatch.
Threats and conservation
Coral reef and anemone bleaching, and collection for the aquarium trade.
Where to see it
- Coral reefs of Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia and northern Australia
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
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