Species · GBIF taxon 5212057
Red Saddleback Anemonefish
Amphiprion ephippiumAlso known as Saddle Anemonefish, Blackbacked Anemonefish, Red Saddleback Clownfish
Red saddleback anemonefish live in strict hierarchical groups within the protective tentacles of host anemones, where a dominant breeding pair rules over smaller non-breeding males. Juveniles start life with a white head bar that gradually disappears, leaving adults with a striking reddish-orange body accented by a prominent black saddle on their flanks. These bold defenders actively guard their host anemone, charging at intruders many times their size to protect their home.
MarineTerritorialSymbiotic
Licensed referencew:ru:Nid (talk | contribs) / Public domain · cc0
- diet
- Omnivorous, feeding on zooplankton, small invertebrates, and algae
- family
- Pomacentridae
- threats
- Habitat degradation, coral bleaching, and collection for the aquarium trade
- life Span
- 6 to 10 years in the wild
NE
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
- Approach slowly: Snorkelers can get close to host anemones by moving gently without making sudden gestures.
- Watch for territoriality: Observe the dominant female darting forward to defend her perimeter if you get too close.
- Look for the saddle: Identify adults by the large black patch on the rear half of their bright orange bodies.