True Percula Clown - Full Black

Introduction

Species: Amphiprion percula
Common Names: True Percula Clownfish, Full Black Percula Clownfish
Natural Habitat: Native to the warm, shallow coral reefs and lagoons of the Indo-Pacific region, especially around northern Australia and Papua New Guinea, where it associates with host anemones.

Physical Characteristics

Appearance: Striking all-black body with contrasting white vertical bands edged in black. Its vibrant, high-contrast coloration distinguishes it from other clownfish varieties.
Size: Reaches up to 4 inches (10 cm) in length.
Lifespan: Can live for 10-12 years in captivity with proper care.

Habitat Requirements

Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons for a pair; larger tanks are recommended for community setups.
Water Conditions:

• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• pH: 8.0 to 8.4
• Salinity: 1.020 to 1.025 specific gravity
  Aquascaping: Provide live rock and suitable anemones such as Bubble Tip (Entacmaea quadricolor) or Carpet Anemones (Stichodactyla spp.) for hosting behavior.

Diet

Primary Diet: Omnivorous; feeds on zooplankton, algae, and small crustaceans in the wild.
Supplemental Feeding: High-quality flake or pellet food, frozen brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and marine algae.
Feeding Frequency: Feed 1-2 times daily in small amounts.

Compatibility

Temperament: Peaceful; suitable for community tanks but can become territorial toward other clownfish or similar species.
Suitable Tank Mates: Pairs well with gobies, wrasses, tangs, and other peaceful reef fish.
Incompatibilities: Avoid housing with aggressive or highly territorial fish.

Care Level

Difficulty: Easy to moderate; well-suited for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
Health Monitoring: Monitor for common diseases like ich and marine velvet, and maintain excellent water quality.

Breeding

Breeding in Captivity: Readily breeds in aquariums; captive-bred specimens are widely available.
Spawning: Females lay eggs on flat surfaces near their hosting anemone. Males guard and aerate the eggs until they hatch.

Economic Considerations

Market Demand: Highly sought after for its unique coloration and peaceful temperament.
Wholesale Pricing: Moderately priced due to its distinct appearance and availability.
Retail Pricing: Reflects its desirability and rarity compared to standard clownfish.

Sustainability and Conservation

Wild Population: Stable, but habitat loss and climate change pose potential risks.
Aquaculture Efforts: Extensively bred in captivity, reducing pressure on wild populations.
Regulations: Support sustainable practices by choosing captive-bred specimens.

Conclusion

The True Percula Clownfish in its Full Black variety is a stunning and peaceful addition to marine aquariums. Its bold coloration and hardy nature make it a favorite among hobbyists. With proper care and a suitable environment, this striking clownfish can thrive, providing beauty and personality to any reef setup.