Maldive Anemonefish

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Native to the Western Indian Ocean, primarily found in the Maldives, Laccadive Islands, and Sri Lanka. Inhabits shallow coral reefs at depths of 2 to 25 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Pomacentridae. Features a slightly elongated, compressed body. Reaches a maximum size of 10 cm. Adapted to swim within the sting of anemone tentacles.

Social Behavior: Lives in a strict mutualistic relationship, most frequently with the Magnificent Anemone (Heteractis magnifica). Strongly defends its host anemone against potential threats.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Yellow-orange base color. The belly, pelvic fins, and anal fin are deep black. Features a single white vertical bar behind the eye. Females are larger than males.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a minimum tank size of 100 liters with plenty of rock caves. Keeping its preferred host anemone (Heteractis magnifica) is highly recommended.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous. Provide a varied diet of frozen foods like brine shrimp and mysis, high-quality dry foods, and preparations containing marine algae.

Water Quality: Maintain stable marine conditions: temperature 24-28 °C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity 1.020-1.025 with moderate water circulation.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Good for community reef aquariums. Do not house with other clownfish species to prevent severe territory disputes. Keep with peaceful tankmates.

Aquarium Breeding: Oviparous, protandrous hermaphrodite. Spawns adhesive eggs on clean rock surfaces near the host anemone. The male guards and fans the nest.

Risks and Diseases: Vulnerable to common marine external parasites like Brooklynella and velvet. Ensuring high water quality and quarantine is essential.