Red Sea Anemonefish

Amphiprion bicinctus

The Red Sea Anemonefish (*Amphiprion bicinctus*) is a clownfish native to the Red Sea and western Indian Ocean. It lives in close association with sea anemones and is known for its bold orange coloration and two white vertical bars.

Saltwater

Red Sea Anemonefish reference image — Diego Delso, cc-by-sa, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

Orange body with two broad white vertical bars, one behind the eye and one midbody
Typically lacks the third tail-base bar common in some other clownfish species
Black edging on fins becomes more apparent in adults, especially along the dorsal and caudal fins

Habitat

Shallow coral reefs, lagoon patch reefs, and sheltered reef slopes, always associated with host sea anemones, especially in clear warm tropical water.

Bait notes

Not a standard food or sport fish. In captivity it accepts small meaty marine foods such as mysis shrimp, chopped clam, and quality marine pellets; wild anglers should avoid collecting reef fishes.

Behavior

Lives in a small hierarchy with a dominant breeding pair; typically stays close to its anemone and feeds on zooplankton, algae, and small benthic invertebrates. It is territorial around the host anemone and retreats into tentacles when threatened.

Caution

Reef-associated ornamental species; collection may be regulated or restricted locally. Avoid disturbing anemones, whose stings can irritate skin.

Fishing notes

Best targeted only by aquarium collection methods in jurisdictions where permitted; for casual angling it is not a practical or ethical game species. Use careful non-destructive handling and avoid removing individuals from host anemones.