Scientists develop designer clownfish

Scientists at the National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NBFGR) have successfully developed a designer clownfish by cross-breeding Amphiprion percula (male) and Amphiprion ocellaris (female).

Hatchery Production Technology

The NBFGR hatchery, located at the Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Centre, Airoli, Mumbai, has developed hatchery production technology for more than a dozen clownfish species using low saline water.

About Clownfish

Clownfish, also known as anemonefish, are small, colourful marine fish found in the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific region. They are well-known for their vibrant orange and white stripes and their symbiotic relationship with sea anemones.

• Size: Smallest clownfish measure 7–8 cm, while the longest grow up to 17 cm.
• Habitat: They thrive in warm waters and are widely popular in marine aquariums.

Symbiotic Relationship with Anemones

Clownfish survive through a mutually assistive symbiotic relationship with sea anemones.

• The anemone protects clownfish from predators and provides food scraps.
• In return, the clownfish lures prey into the anemone using its bright colours, where the prey is killed by the anemone’s poison.

Unique Social Behaviour

• All clownfish are born male.
• They live in groups with a strict social hierarchy.
• The largest and most dominant fish in the group undergoes sex change from male to female, ensuring reproductive balance.

(Source: TH)