Amphiprion mccullochi (McCullochi Clownfish)
• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes
• Small invert safe: ✅ Yes
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes
• Minimum tank size: 150L+ (preferably 200L+ for pairs or anemone hosting)
• Adult size: ~12 cm (4.7 inches)
• Diet: Omnivorous (marine pellets, flakes, frozen mysis/brine shrimp, and algae-based foods)
• Be aware of: Rare in the aquarium trade, endemic to Lord Howe Island. Can be semi-aggressive, particularly when defending an anemone.
The McCullochi Clownfish is a rare and highly sought-after species, native to Lord Howe Island and surrounding areas. Due to its restricted natural range, this species is uncommon in the aquarium trade but has become more available through captive breeding programs. Known for its deep brown to black coloration, white facial markings, and distinctive pale tail, it is a bold and hardy choice for advanced aquarists.
McCullochi Clownfish are visually striking, with a dark brown to black body, contrasting with a lighter snout and a white vertical band behind the eyes. Their caudal fin is white or pale, setting them apart from other clownfish species. Juveniles may display additional white barring, which fades as they mature. As with all clownfish, females are larger and more dominant than males, forming strict hierarchies.
Endemic to the Lord Howe Island Marine Park and nearby Norfolk Island, McCullochi Clownfish form symbiotic relationships with anemones, particularly Bubble Tip Anemones (Entacmaea quadricolor). They are territorial and defensive, especially when hosting an anemone, making them semi-aggressive tank inhabitants. In the wild, they live in pairs or small social groups, with a dominant female overseeing the territory. In captivity, they do not require an anemone but will claim a rock structure or coral as their home.
Due to their territorial behavior, McCullochi Clownfish need a minimum tank size of 150 liters (200 liters for a pair), with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots. Water parameters should be kept stable, with a temperature of 24–26°C (75–79°F), pH between 8.1–8.4, and salinity at 1.021–1.025. Moderate to strong water movement is ideal, replicating their natural reef environment. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are crucial for maintaining pristine water quality.
As omnivores, McCullochi Clownfish thrive on a varied diet, including high-quality marine pellets and flakes, frozen mysis and brine shrimp, and algae-based foods. Supplementing their diet with chopped seafood (shrimp, squid, or fish) and vitamin-enriched preparations helps maintain their immune system and vibrant coloration. Feeding once or twice daily in small portions ensures they receive adequate nutrition without polluting the water.
McCullochi Clownfish are semi-aggressive, particularly toward other clownfish and fish that invade their territory. They do best with semi-aggressive tank mates, such as dwarf angelfish, wrasses, basslets, and tangs. Avoid housing them with timid species, such as Firefish or small gobies, which may struggle with their dominant nature. Keeping multiple clownfish species together is not recommended, unless in very large tanks (300L+).
McCullochi Clownfish are naturally drawn to anemones, particularly Bubble Tip Anemones (Entacmaea quadricolor), though they may also host in Sebae Anemones (Heteractis crispa). If keeping an anemone, ensure strong lighting (LEDs, T5s, or metal halides) and stable water conditions. However, they will also readily adopt rock formations or corals as their surrogate host.
As a hardy species, McCullochi Clownfish are generally resistant to disease, but they can still be vulnerable to Marine Ich (Cryptocaryon irritans), Brooklynella (Clownfish Disease), and bacterial infections if exposed to stress or poor water conditions. Quarantining new fish before introduction is highly recommended, and maintaining a varied diet and stable environment will help prevent most health issues.
With proper care, McCullochi Clownfish can live up to 10-15 years in captivity. Their rare status, striking appearance, and hardy nature make them a prized addition to any marine aquarium. Their unique coloration and territorial behavior ensure they remain an engaging and fascinating species to observe.