Common name: Sebae Clownfish

General Information

The Sebae Clownfish, scientifically known as Amphiprion sebae, is a captivating species popular among marine aquarists. Known for its striking orange body with black and white bands, this species is often mistaken for the Amphiprion clarkii, which shares similar coloration but can be distinguished by subtle differences in banding patterns and body shape.

Sebae Clownfish are highly valued in the aquarium trade due to their vibrant appearance and relatively peaceful nature. They are often a choice for beginners and experienced hobbyists alike, thanks to their hardiness and adaptability to various tank conditions.

Care

Sebae Clownfish are adaptable and can thrive in a range of aquarium setups. They do well in tanks as small as 100 liters (about 26 gallons), though larger setups are recommended if housing them with other species. They prefer aquariums with plenty of live rock and hiding spots to mimic their natural reef environment.

To ensure the health and vibrancy of Sebae Clownfish, maintain stable water conditions with regular monitoring of pH, salinity, and temperature. These clownfish are not particularly demanding but benefit from a well-balanced diet and a clean environment.

Diet and Feeding

In their natural habitat, Sebae Clownfish are omnivores, feeding on small invertebrates and algae. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet that includes high-quality marine flakes or pellets, along with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

Feed them once or twice daily, ensuring that the food is consumed within a few minutes to prevent waste and maintain water quality. A varied diet helps prevent nutritional deficiencies and keeps them healthy.

Behavior and Compatibility

Sebae Clownfish are generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tank mates. They may exhibit territorial behavior, especially around their chosen host anemone or a specific area of the tank. However, they are less aggressive compared to some other clownfish species.

They are compatible with a wide range of reef-safe fish and invertebrates. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive or predatory species that might harass them.

Reproduction

Sebae Clownfish, like other clownfish, exhibit protandrous hermaphroditism, meaning they are born male and can change to female as they mature. In a group, the largest individual becomes the dominant female, while the next largest becomes the breeding male. Breeding pairs are monogamous, and the female will lay eggs on a flat surface near their host anemone.

The male guards and aerates the eggs until they hatch, typically within 6 to 11 days. Raising the fry requires careful attention to diet and water conditions, with rotifers and baby brine shrimp being essential for the early stages.

Symbiosis

Sebae Clownfish form symbiotic relationships with sea anemones, which provide them protection from predators. In return, the clownfish defend the anemone from potential threats and help keep it clean by eating debris.

In the wild, they are commonly associated with anemones such as Heteractis crispa and Heteractis magnifica. In aquariums, they may also accept alternative hosts like Entacmaea quadricolor.

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, Sebae Clownfish can live up to 10-15 years in captivity. Maintaining a stable environment, providing a balanced diet, and regular tank maintenance are crucial for their longevity.

When selecting a Sebae Clownfish, look for vibrant colors and active behavior. Avoid individuals with signs of disease or stress. Routine care includes monitoring water quality and ensuring a varied diet to prevent common health issues such as ich and marine velvet.

Habitat

Sebae Clownfish are naturally found in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, particularly around coral reefs and lagoons. They prefer environments with ample live rock and anemones, thriving in stable, warm water conditions with moderate flow, similar to their natural habitats.