FOOD & FEEDING clown fish
The clownfish has a symbiotic, or mutually beneficial, relationship with the sea anemone. It catches most of its food by cooperating with its host anemone. The clownfish will leave the safety of the anemone's tentacles and swim out among the nearby reef. Its brilliant colors attract larger fish, who, lured by the thought of a meal, follow it back to the anemone and are stung by the anemone one's tentacles. The anemone then consumes the fish, and the clownfish feeds on the remains.
In addition to other fish, the clownfish also feeds on planktonic crustaceans and algae that live in or grow on the reef. The clownfish also eats away debris and nibbles off the dead tentacles of its host anemone.
CLOWNFISH & MAN
Far too small to be hunted by man for food, clownfish have lived undisturbed in the coral reefs for thousands of years. But more recently, they have become extremely popular as saltwater aquarium fish. The brightly colored species command a high price in europe and the united states. Collectors, realizing the demand, have destroyed many reefs in search of prime specimens, often damaging or killing the host anemones in the process.
Fortunately, many local governements have imposed restrictions on the number of the clownfish that can be taken from their habitats and the means by which they can be taken. And, because clownfish are a big attraction with snorkelers and scuba divers, the tourist industry has an interest in protecting them and ensuring that they be allowed to live and breed safely on the reefs.
KEY FACTS
Sizes
Length:2-5 in., according to species
Breeding
Spawning season:Year round in tropical waters.
Eggs:Laid in large batches.
Hatching time:4-5 days.
Lifestyle
Habits: Usually live in pairs within an anemone.
Diet: Leftovers from fish consumed by anemone; algae.
Lifespan: 3-5 years in captivity.
Related species
Clownfish belong to the same family of damselfish. They include the common A. percula, the two-banded A. akindynos, the black A. melannopus, the black-banded A. ephippus, the white-maned A. periderain, and the red sea variety A. bicinctus.this information was posted by clown fish.