Clownfish

Question
Hello Dave,
I have had a pair of clownfish (both about the same size) since last October and they have gotten along great.  I bought/introduced them together when they were about 3/4 inch long.  Just recently I noticed that they are charging each other and nipping, but there doesn't seem to be any damage.  I have monitored them for a while, and noticed that it will happen for 5 seconds, then they will be fine.  They both still seem to be pretty healthy, and don't have any physical damage at all due to their aggressiveness.  I have read a little bit on the subject and wondered if it is just the fact that one is claiming dominance or superiority over the other and if eventually they will become a mating pair?

Thanks for all your help :)

Answer
Hi Malik,

Great question.

Regarding the Clownfish, Anemone Fish (Amphiprion ocellaris) the aggressiveness you have described with your pair is perfectly normal.

If by the slim chance you have a pair where one is a different species of clownfish, this could cause them to fight.

Regarding Gender:  All are males when they are born. As they mature and start to pair off the dominant one will change/morph into a female. The female is usually larger than the male and will be the primary defender of their territory.

Good luck in all you saltwater fish endeavors.

Regards,
Dave

All Experts - Editor

http://www.ocreef.com/clownfish_anenome_compatibility - Director