Description of a Clown Fish

Physical Characteristics

• The clown fish is bright orange from head to tail, except for three swerved white lines. The lines from bands around its head, torso and tail. The mature fish is about 4 inches long, but some can grow as big as 7 inches long. The clown fish has a bulging face, similar to that of a frog.

Behavior

• The clown fish gets its name partly from its fanciful coloring, and party because its active behavior can be construed as comical. For example, it has a distinct way of swimming that can sometimes resemble a waddle. They exhibit quick but clumsy movements when defending their habitat.

Mating

• The fish live in groups and reproduce through external fertilization. The female drops her eggs into a nest prepared by the male. Clown fish can also change gender. When the dominant mating female of the group dies, the dominant male morphs into a female to replace her.

Habitat

• Clown fish are found in shallow reefs in the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and the Western Pacific, and usually around sea anemone plants. Protective coating on its scales makes the clown fish immune to the poisonous sting of the anemone. The relationship is mutually beneficial. The anemone can protect the fish from predators who won't risk being stung. The fish eats insect parasites that can plague the anemone, and also brings it food. According to "Marine Habitat" magazine, the clown fish further benefits the anemone because its swimming activity circulates the water around the plant.