Yellowtail Clownfish

Amphiprion clarkii

The yellowtail clownfish (Amphiprion clarkii), also known as Clark's anemonefish, is the most widely distributed clownfish species, found from the Persian Gulf to Micronesia and Japan to Australia. Reaching about 15 cm in length, it displays remarkable color variation across its range, from nearly black with white bands and a bright yellow tail to orange, brown, or yellow-bodied forms. Two or three white vertical bands cross the body. It is the least host-specific of all clownfish, associating with at least ten species of sea anemones, which it protects from anemone-eating fish in exchange for shelter among the stinging tentacles. Clownfish produce a mucus coating that prevents the anemone's nematocysts from firing. Like all clownfish, they are protandrous hermaphrodites: all individuals begin as males, with the dominant fish in a group transitioning to female. The female is the largest and most aggressive member of the hierarchy. Yellowtail clownfish are bolder than many species and will charge at approaching divers while making audible popping sounds.