Amphiprion frenatus (Tomato Clownfish)
• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes
• Small invert safe: ✅ Yes
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes
• Minimum tank size: 100L+ (preferably 150L+ for pairs or anemone hosting)
• Adult size: ~14 cm (5.5 inches)
• Diet: Omnivorous (high-quality marine pellets, flakes, frozen mysis/brine shrimp, and algae-based foods)
• Be aware of: Can be aggressive, especially as it matures. Best kept singly or in a bonded pair. Will defend its territory fiercely, especially if hosting an anemone.
Tomato Clownfish (Amphiprion frenatus) – A Bold and Hardy Clownfish
The Tomato Clownfish is a hardy, brightly colored, and charismatic species in the Amphiprion genus. Unlike the smaller and more peaceful ocellaris or percula clownfish, the Tomato Clownfish is larger, more aggressive, and highly territorial, especially as it matures. It is popular among saltwater aquarists for its vibrant orange-red coloration, ease of care, and ability to thrive in a variety of tank setups.
Appearance and Coloration
Tomato Clownfish are easily recognizable due to their deep orange to reddish coloration. Their markings and colors change as they grow:
• Juveniles are bright orange with a single white vertical stripe behind the eye.
• Adults develop a darker reddish or deep orange coloration, and the white stripe may fade slightly.
• Females are significantly larger and darker than males, as clownfish are protandrous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as males and can become females if needed.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
Tomato Clownfish are native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the waters around Indonesia, the Philippines, and Taiwan. In the wild, they:
• Live in symbiosis with anemones, particularly Entacmaea quadricolor (Bubble Tip Anemone).
• Defend their anemone aggressively, chasing away other fish that come too close.
• Form strong bonds with their mate, living as a dominant female with a smaller male.
In captivity, they do not require an anemone to thrive but may still attempt to host corals, rock formations, or artificial decorations.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
While not demanding, Tomato Clownfish benefit from stable water conditions and plenty of space.
• Minimum tank size: 100L+ (150L+ recommended for pairs or anemone hosting)
• Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Salinity: 1.020–1.025
• Water movement: Moderate (not too strong, as clownfish are not powerful swimmers)
• Filtration: Good-quality filtration and regular water changes to maintain stable water parameters
Providing plenty of rockwork for hiding spots will help reduce stress, especially if they do not have an anemone to host.
Diet and Feeding
Tomato Clownfish are omnivores, requiring a varied diet for optimal health and coloration.
Recommended foods include:
• High-quality marine pellets and flakes – Provides balanced nutrition.
• Frozen mysis and brine shrimp – Excellent protein sources.
• Chopped seafood (shrimp, squid, or fish) – Occasional treats.
• Algae-based foods or spirulina – Supports digestion and coloration.
They should be fed 1-2 times per day, and portion sizes should be small enough to prevent overfeeding and water quality issues.
Compatibility and Tank Mates
Tomato Clownfish are one of the more aggressive clownfish species, especially as they grow. They will defend their territory vigorously, particularly if hosting an anemone.
Best tank mates include:
✔ Other semi-aggressive fish such as dwarf angelfish (Flame Angelfish, Coral Beauty), wrasses, and tangs.
✔ Hardy, fast-moving fish that can hold their own (such as damselfish, basslets, or larger gobies).
✔ Inverts such as shrimp, snails, and crabs are generally safe.
Avoid housing with:
❌ Other clownfish species unless in an extremely large tank to avoid fighting.
❌ Small, timid fish (e.g., Firefish, small gobies) that may get bullied.
❌ Very aggressive species that may stress or outcompete them for food.
If keeping a pair, introduce both as juveniles, as they will naturally establish dominance and form a pair.
Hosting Anemones
Tomato Clownfish naturally host Bubble Tip Anemones (Entacmaea quadricolor) in the wild but will also sometimes accept other species, such as:
• Haddon’s Carpet Anemone (Stichodactyla haddoni)
• Long Tentacle Anemone (Macrodactyla doreensis)
⚠ Important Notes:
• Anemones require strong lighting (LEDs, metal halides, or T5s) and stable water conditions.
• Anemones should only be kept by experienced aquarists, as they can be challenging to care for.
• Clownfish do NOT need an anemone to be happy or healthy.
Health and Disease Considerations
Tomato Clownfish are very hardy, but they can be prone to some common saltwater fish diseases:
• Marine Ich (Cryptocaryon irritans) – Stress can trigger outbreaks. Quarantining new fish before adding them to the display tank is recommended.
• Brooklynella (Clownfish Disease) – A parasite common in clownfish. Symptoms include heavy mucus production and difficulty breathing.
• Fin Rot and Bacterial Infections – Caused by poor water conditions or physical injuries.
To keep them healthy:
✔ Ensure a stable environment with good water quality.
✔ Provide a varied diet rich in vitamins.
✔ Quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank.
Lifespan and Long-Term Care
With proper care, Tomato Clownfish can live up to 15 years or more in captivity. Their hardy nature, bold personality, and striking coloration make them a great choice for intermediate or advanced aquarists.
Why Choose a Tomato Clownfish?
✔ Bright red-orange coloration with a distinctive white stripe.
✔ Hardy and resilient, making them easy to care for.
✔ Can live long lives, up to 15 years or more in captivity.
✔ Will host anemones (if provided) but do not require one.
✔ Active and engaging personality, always exploring and interacting with their surroundings.
⚠ Important Considerations Before Buying a Tomato Clownfish:
🚫 Can be aggressive – Best kept singly or in a bonded pair.
🚫 Defensive of their territory – Will chase away tank mates if provoked.
🚫 Requires a moderate to large tank – Needs swimming space and shelter.