Percula Clown

The Percula Clownfish, also known as the True Percula Clownfish, is one of the most iconic saltwater fish, easily recognizable by its bright orange body, white bands, and black outlines. Native to the Indo-Pacific, particularly around Australia and Papua New Guinea, this species is peaceful, hardy, and great for beginners. It is often confused with the Ocellaris Clownfish, but Perculas generally have thicker black outlines and a deeper orange coloration.

Care Guide:

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons, though 30+ gallons is better for pairs or community setups.
• Temperament: Peaceful, but may become territorial, especially when paired and defending a host anemone.
• Diet: Omnivorous – thrives on a variety of foods, including:
  • High-quality marine pellets and flakes
  • Frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and krill
  • Occasional algae-based foods or spirulina
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C)
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Salinity: 1.023-1.025
  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: <10 ppm for best health
• Flow: Moderate – adaptable, but prefers areas with gentle to moderate currents.
• Reef Safe? Yes, does not harm corals or invertebrates.
• Tank Setup:
  • Does not require an anemone, but will readily host one if available.
  • Common anemone pairings: Bubble Tip Anemone (Entacmaea quadricolor).
  • Provide plenty of rockwork for hiding spots if anemones are not present.
• Compatibility:
  • Great community fish, pairs well with other peaceful reef fish like gobies, blennies, and wrasses.
  • Can be territorial toward other clownfish – best kept as a single fish or a mated pair.
  • Avoid aggressive tank mates like large triggers, groupers, or dottybacks.

Special Considerations:

• Pairing: Can be kept in pairs, but introduce them when young to prevent aggression.
• Anemone Hosting: While they may host an anemone, they do not require one to thrive in captivity.
• Color Variants: Selective breeding has led to many designer variations like Picasso, Platinum, and Onyx Perculas.

Summary:

The Percula Clownfish is a hardy, peaceful, and beginner-friendly fish, perfect for reef and nano tanks alike. With proper diet, stable water conditions, and a secure environment, it will thrive and become a centerpiece in any marine aquarium. Whether hosting an anemone or living among rockwork, it remains one of the most beloved fish in the saltwater hobby.