The Captive-Bred Percula Clownfish, also known as the True Percula, or Clown Anemonefish, are normally found in association with anemones on the reefs of Oceania, the Indo-Pacific, and the Great Barrier Reef. It can be found individually, or more commonly, in pairs or small groups within the same anemone. Captive-Bred Percula Clownfish are usually mostly orange and white when young. As the fish matures the black sections between the white stripes will darken with age.
The Ocellaris Clownfish is often confused with the Percula Clownfish. Unless you are experienced with both fish, they are difficult to tell apart. The Percula is a very bright orange, whereas, the Ocellaris tends to be more drably colored. The Percula Clownfish also has a thicker black outline to its white body stripes. Their beautiful colors and likable personalities make them a wonderful addition to reef aquariums.
The Captive-Bred Percula Clownfish have a unique advantage over wild-harvested species. The Captive-Bred Percula Clownfish is very hardy and more accustomed to conditions found in home aquariums. Therefore, it makes a great choice for novices and seasoned aquarists alike.
Captive-bred clownfish are easy to breed in the home aquarium. The females will be the largest of the pair, and two fish will usually stay close to each other in the aquarium. These fish are egg layers and will deposit the eggs on a flat surface, and defend the eggs from other tank mates. The eggs will normally hatch in 6-11 days depending on the temperature. The fry must be reared in a separate aquarium on a diet of rotifers then baby brine shrimp.
In nature, the Percula Clownfish is an omnivore. In an aquarium, it will readily accept most meaty foods and herbivore preparations.