Probably the most popular aquarium fish out there, clownfish species (Amphiprioninae) are in the hobby to stay. If you’re thinking of getting one of the various clownfish species for your aquarium, you might be wondering how long you’ll be able to enjoy it. How long do clownfish live?
In this article, we’ll cover the average lifespan of a clownfish topic in depth. I’ll show you some tips on how to prolong your clownfish’s life. And if that’s not enough, I’ll answer some related questions, as well.
See also:
- Can A Female Clownfish Turn Into A Male? Amazing Truth.
- Do Clownfish Sleep? Amazing Sleeping Behavior Of Clownfish.
What Is A Clownfish?
“Clownfish” is a common name used to refer to any of the thirty recognized species within the subfamily Amphiprioninae in the family Pomacentridae. Thirty species are recognized: one in the genus Premnas, while the remaining are in the genus Amphiprion. People also call Clownfish as anemonefish, which is a reference to the fact they all form symbiotic mutualisms with sea anemones.
Average Lifespan Of A Clownfish In Captivity
Most clownfish raised in home aquariums will live between 4 and 6 years. However, that’s not even close to their potential lifespan. With proper care, a good diet and clean water, you can extend their lifespans to 10, 15, or even 20 years.
Average Lifespan Of A Clownfish In The Wild
Clownfish in the wild tend to live a shorter life, somewhere between 6 to 10 years, if they are lucky. The most common problems faced by wild clownfish are predators and a lack of food. Tank-raised clownfish do not face these problems.
Factors Affect Your Clownfish Life Expectancy
Most clownfish will have different lifespans. Some will die earlier while others live significantly longer. Sometimes, even when you do everything right it’s still not enough to save your fish. It’s ok – It’s the way nature works.
However, there are still things you can do to make your fish’s life better. Ways that will definitely prolong its life.
Diet
Feeding your Clownfish a healthy diet will improve their overall health and lead to an increase in life expectancy. Make sure that you feed your clowns well, and on a frequent basis.
We have a separate article on feeding clownfish. Feel free to check it out. Everything is covered in depth How Often to Feed Clownfish
Genetics
Genetics plays a big role in the overall health of the fish, too. Today, there are many new designer varieties of saltwater fish entering aquariums.
I suspect some of these types of clownfish won’t live long compared to some natural types. However, most of these claims are just assumptions. The best thing to do before you buy a clownfish is checked that it’s from a reputable breeder who knows his stuff.
Environment
One of the most common reasons for a short life span in captivity is poor tank conditions. It’s also worth mentioning that inappropriate tank size can be an issue. Smaller tanks are often harder to maintain and typically offer poor living conditions for fish. You may not need a large tank: around 30 gallons is a good size to start.
One of the myths people have about clownfish is that they need to be kept with an anemone in order to survive. Contrary to what you might think, It survives just fine without anemone. Skipping the anemone means you get to avoid its challenging care and high lighting needs. However, having one available does make for a nice touch. If you’re able to provide anemones, the addition of these underwater plants makes for a beautiful set-up.
Some Other Related Questions
Where do Clownfish live?
Clownfish are found in the shallow waters and coral reefs of the western Pacific Ocean, the Indian Ocean, and the Red Sea. They form symbiotic relationships primarily with three types of sea anemones, and they spend the vast majority of their lives within their host anemones.
Are Clownfish good to eat?
No, clownfish are not considered good to eat, and they are not hunted for food.
Can you keep more than 2 Clownfish?
Clownfish can live without other fish. They can also live in pairs if that is what you want. However, you are discouraged from keeping more than two clownfish in a tank. Don’t even think about trying to introduce multiple breeding pairs of clownfish.
Are Clownfish herbivores, carnivores, or omnivores?
Clownfish are Omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and other animals.
How long can clownfish live in freshwater?
Clownfish are marine (saltwater) fishes that have adapted to the saltwater environment. Their kidneys and gills are not set up to handle freshwater so they would die within hours if put into freshwater environments.
Conclusion
I hope this article had provided useful information about the average lifespan of a clownfish. Remember that all fish are like humans, including the clownfish, less stress leads to a longer lifespan.
Make sure that your clownfish live in a healthy environment, with clean water and enough food, they will certainly live a long and happy life.
Annette M. Chaney is an experienced marine biologist with over 20 years of experience as an aquarist and fishkeeper. She started her first aquarium at a young age, filling it with frogs and goldfish obtained from the ten-cent pet store.
Annette grew up caring for and breeding African Cichlids, which led to a hobby in high school that doubled as a profitable means. Attending Reed College gave her time to solidify herself as an accomplished aquarium caretaker with an eye for sales. After that, from 2009 – 2013, she studied at Roger Williams University – one of the most prestigious universities for Aquaculture and Aquarium in USA. She is the founder of AquariumCircle since 2010