Cinnamon Anemonefish
Cinnamon Anemonefish
Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Bleniiformes
Family: Pomacentridae
Genus: Amphiprion
Species: A. melanopus
Habitat & Distribution : Lagoons and outer reef, depths 1 - 18 m, Pacific ocean
Diet: Zooplankton, algae, and small crustaceans
Size : Up to 12 cm
Lifespan: 5 - 10 years
Description
Cinnamon anemonefish is dark red to cinnamon color, with their fins and tail being lighter than the rest of their body. They have a wide white stripe behind their eyes.
Behavior
They are known to form symbiosis with three host anemones. Most commonly found associated with the bubble tip anemone (E. quadricolor), but are sometimes found with the magnificent sea anemone (R. magnifica) and the leathery sea anemone (R. crispa).
Reproduction
These fish are monogamous, and the females lay their eggs near their anemone for protection, and are guarded by the male until they hatch.
Communication & Perception
They primarily communicate with underwater acoustics by popping their jaws, producing some popping and clicking sounds.
Predator
Moray eels, lionfish, snappers, groupers and other larger predatory fish.
Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN Red List; 2010)
Fun Fact
They are called cinnamon anemonefish because of their cinnamon-like color. A few also call them fire anemonefish due to their dark red appearance.