Species · GBIF taxon 2398709
Maroon Clownfish
Premnas biaculeatusAlso known as Spine-cheeked Anemonefish, Spinecheek Anemonefish, Maroon Anemonefish
Maroon clownfish are the largest and most territorial of all anemonefish, easily recognized by the sharp, backward-pointing spines on their cheeks. Females grow up to three times larger than their male mates and aggressively defend their host bubble-tip anemone from any intruders. They maintain a strict size-based hierarchy within their host, where the dominant female controls the breeding territory.
SymbioticMarineTerritorial
- diet
- Omnivorous, feeding on zooplankton, small crustaceans, and benthic algae
- family
- Pomacentridae
- threats
- Coral bleaching, habitat destruction, and over-harvesting for the marine aquarium trade
- life Span
- 5 to 15 years
LC
Highly territorial females will aggressively bite hands or fingers that approach their host anemone.
Possesses sharp, backward-pointing cheek spines and a highly aggressive temperament, leading to painful defensive bites.
Avoid placing hands near their host anemone when diving or maintaining an aquarium.- Observe from a distance: Watch their fascinating bobbing swim pattern without getting too close to their host anemone.
- Look for the cheek spines: Spot the distinctive, sharp spines pointing backward just below each eye.
- Identify the female: Look for the significantly larger, darker maroon individual dominating the anemone.