Red Saddleback Anemonefish
Red Saddleback Anemonefish
Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Bleniiformes
Family: Pomacentridae
Genus: Amphiprion
Species: A. ephippium
Habitat & Distribution : Reef-associated, depths 2 - 15 m, eastern Indian ocean
Diet : Zooplankton, algae and small crustaceans
Size: Up to 14 cm
Lifespan: Up to 16 years
Description
The red saddleback anemonefish are deep red to yellowish orange in color. They are named after the black spot or saddle-like blotch on their backs.
Behavior
They are found forming symbiosis with two host anemones, the bubble-tip anemone (E. quadricolor) and leathery sea anemone (R. crispa).
Reproduction
Like most anemonefish, females lay their eggs near their anemone and the males will guard them until they hatch.
Communication & Perception
They primarily communicate using sounds, grinding their teeth and amplifying the sounds using their swim bladder.
Predator
Moray eels, lionfish, snappers, groupers and other larger predatory fish.
Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN Red List; 2010)
Fun Fact
Juveniles usually have a white band behind their eyes, but this band fades as they enter maturity.