The Melanopus Clownfish is scientifically known as Amphiprion melanopus. It's also commonly called the Cinnamon Clownfish, Fire Clownfish, Red and Black Anemonefish, or Black-backed Anemonefish.
This is one of the larger and more robust species of clownfish, known for its striking coloration and a slightly more territorial nature than some of the more commonly kept clownfish like the Ocellaris or Percula.
Appearance:
- Coloration: The body is typically a dark reddish-brown to a deep orange-red, often with a distinctive blackish patch or "saddle" developing on the rear half of the body as they mature.
- Stripe: They have a single, thick, prominent white to bluish-white band that runs vertically just behind the eye, often extending over the top of the head. In some regional variations, this band can be more blue than white.
- Fins: The dorsal and pectoral fins are typically yellowish to reddish-orange, while the pelvic and anal fins are often black, contributing to the "black-backed" appearance.
- Juvenile vs. Adult: Juveniles are often a more uniform reddish-orange with a prominent white head stripe. As they mature, the dark "melanopus" (meaning "black foot") coloration on the body and fins becomes more pronounced.
Adult Size:
- Melanopus Clownfish are one of the larger clownfish species, typically reaching an adult size of 5 to 6 inches (13-15 cm) in captivity. Some can even reach up to 4.7 inches (12 cm) in the wild.
Natural Habitat and Distribution:
- Found widely in the Western Pacific Ocean, including Eastern Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Coral Sea (including eastern Queensland, relevant for Caboolture), Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and parts of Micronesia.
- Inhabit shallow reef lagoons and outer reef environments.
- They form symbiotic relationships with several species of host anemones, most commonly the Bubble Tip Anemone (Entacmaea quadricolor), but also sometimes the Sebae Anemone (Heteractis crispa) and Magnificent Anemone (Heteractis magnifica).
Aquarium Care (Intermediate Level):
- Minimum Tank Size: A minimum of 30 gallons (approximately 113 liters) is often cited for a single Melanopus Clownfish. However, for a pair, especially if they host an anemone, a 50-75 gallon (190-284 liters) or larger tank is much more suitable to provide ample space and reduce territorial aggression.
- Water Parameters: Maintain stable marine water conditions.
- Temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C)
- Salinity: 1.020-1.025 specific gravity
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Alkalinity (dKH): 8-12 dKH
- Ammonia and nitrites must be 0 ppm. Nitrates should be kept below 20 ppm.
- Filtration: A robust filtration system is essential to handle their bio-load and maintain water quality.
- Water Flow: Moderate water flow is generally preferred.
- Diet:
- Omnivorous: Melanopus Clownfish are omnivores and readily accept a wide variety of foods.
- Offer a varied diet of high-quality marine flakes, pellets, and frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped clam or squid, and spirulina.
- They will also graze on algae in the tank.
- Feed 2-3 times daily in small amounts.
- Temperament:
- Semi-Aggressive/Territorial: Melanopus Clownfish are generally more territorial and can be more aggressive than popular Ocellaris or Percula clowns, especially as they mature and if they establish a host anemone.
- They are particularly aggressive towards other clownfish species (especially those of similar size or appearance) and other fish that venture too close to their territory or host anemone.
- It is best to keep them as a single specimen or a well-established pair. Introducing two Melanopus Clownfish at a young age or ensuring a significant size difference (the larger will become the female) usually leads to successful pairing.
- They can be kept with most other peaceful to semi-aggressive fish species that are not overly shy or easily intimidated.
- Reef Compatibility: Excellent reef compatibility. Melanopus Clownfish are considered reef safe. They will not harm corals or most invertebrates, making them suitable for mixed reef aquariums.
- Host Anemone (Optional but Recommended):
- While they can live perfectly fine without an anemone, providing a suitable host anemone (like a Bubble Tip Anemone, Entacmaea quadricolor) can bring out their natural behaviors and potentially reduce overall aggression by giving them a defined territory.
- Important: Only add an anemone to a mature, stable aquarium (at least 6-12 months old) with appropriate lighting and water parameters, as anemones are much more difficult to care for than the clownfish themselves.
- Tank Setup:
- Provide plenty of live rock with caves and crevices for hiding and establishing territory.
- Ensure ample open swimming space.
- A secure lid is recommended, although clownfish are not typically jumpers unless extremely startled.
- Disease Susceptibility: Generally hardy once established, but like all marine fish, can be susceptible to marine ich if stressed or in poor water quality.
- Acclimation: Slow and careful drip acclimation is always recommended.
- Quarantine: Highly recommended to quarantine new arrivals for a few weeks to observe for health issues and ensure they are eating well before introducing them to the main display.
The Melanopus Clownfish is a fantastic choice for aquarists looking for a hardy, colourful clownfish with a bit more personality. Its striking appearance and relatively straightforward care (especially without an anemone) make it a rewarding species for intermediate aquarists.
