Tomato Clownfish
Amphiprion frenatus
Tomato Clownfish (Amphiprion frenatus) is a bright orange anemonefish from the western Pacific, best known for living among sea anemones on reef flats and lagoons. It is a popular aquarium species rather than a target fish; wild capture may be regulated locally.
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Identification points
- Solid orange body with a single broad white bar behind the eye
- Adult females usually show a distinct black posterior half or dark edging on the body and fins
- No white mid-body bar like many other clownfish; head bar is the most obvious mark
Habitat
Shallow coral-reef and reef-flat habitats, especially lagoons and sheltered outer-reef slopes with host sea anemones; usually in warm tropical marine water around islands and coastal reefs.
Bait notes
Not a gamefish; rarely targeted with bait. In aquaria it readily accepts chopped shrimp, mysis, enriched brine shrimp, and marine pellet foods.
Behavior
Forms a size-based social hierarchy in a single anemone, with the largest fish as the breeding female. Omnivorous, taking plankton, small crustaceans, and algae-associated foods; most activity stays close to the host anemone.
Caution
Do not disturb or remove host anemones; their tentacles can sting. Wild collection may be restricted in some areas, and reef aquarium trade specimens should be sourced legally and responsibly.
Fishing notes
No meaningful angling fishery; avoid collecting from the wild unless legally permitted and using reef-safe, non-destructive methods. For observation or aquarium collection, minimize handling and never remove the host anemone.