Ocellaris Clownfish care

Amphiprion ocellaris · Saltwater · Beginner level care

The classic beginner saltwater fish, hardy and easy to feed.

Smallest tank20 gallons

Adult size3.5 inches

Temperature76 to 80°F

pH8.1 to 8.4

GroupFine on its own

TemperamentSemi aggressive

SwimsMiddle of the tank

Lives8 to 12 years

Watch for: Keep a single fish or one bonded pair, since they fight other clownfish.

Feeding

Twice a day. A small pinch they finish in about 2 minutes. Marine pellets, mysis, frozen brine shrimp.

Claims a territory and guards it.

Fish that pass every check with Ocellaris Clownfish in a 40 gallon tank: same water, overlapping temperature, nobody gets eaten and no bullies.

What size tank does a Ocellaris Clownfish need?

At least 20 gallons. Adults grow to about 3.5 inches, so plan for the adult size, not the size at the store.

What temperature does a Ocellaris Clownfish like?

76 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with a pH of about 8.1 to 8.4. A steady temperature matters more than hitting one exact number.

How many Ocellaris Clownfish should I keep together?

One is fine. If you keep more, keep one male, since males fight each other.

What do Ocellaris Clownfish eat?

Marine pellets, mysis, frozen brine shrimp. Feed twice a day: a small pinch they finish in about 2 minutes.

Checked against these sources on 2026-11-10. When sources disagree we use the safer number.