Sometimes it’s hard to estimate how big a clownfish will get. There are so many different types of clownfish, each with different sizes and growth rates. In this article, we’ll cover the most popular varieties.
How Big Do Clownfish Get? Clownfish can reach between 2 to 5 inches in length, depending on the species. Some types such as the Maroon clownfish are an exception, often reaching sizes up to 6.7 inches. In general, males are a lot smaller than females.
If you are planning to get a clownfish but you are afraid that it won’t fit your plans, have no fear because in this guide you will learn everything you need to know about clownfish size.
And, if owning a clownfish tank is a dream of yours, I am sure you will do everything it needs to be done to achieve that.
Even if it means upgrading your current tank to be suitable for the clownfish needs. In a matter of fact, we have a guide on that subject, as well. Check out what’s the minimum tank size for clownfish, and what it takes to keep these beautiful fish in your home.
Ocellaris Clownfish Size
The animated movie Finding Nemo has made the Ocellaris clownfish the most popular fish in the saltwater aquarium hobby. These fish are found in the Eastern Indian Ocean and in the Western Pacific Ocean, where they live in small groups, inhabiting sea anemones, with which they have a symbiotic relationship.
The Ocellaris Clownfish often referred to as the Common Clownfish or the False Percula Clownfish, is a small saltwater fish reaching a maximum size of 4.3 inches.
Size Differences in Other Popular Clownfish Types
There are different types of clownfish, each with different sizes and growth rates. In this section, we’ll cover the most popular types available in the aquarium industry.
Percula Clownfish Size
The Percula Clownfish, also known as the Orange Clownfish and Anemone Fish is a small saltwater fish from the Percula Complex. It’s found in the Western Pacific where it inhabits lagoons and seaward reefs. The Percula Clownfish is often confused with the Ocellaris Clownfish mainly because they share almost identical appearance. They are easily bred in captivity which led to developing different “‘designer” varieties. One of the most commonly sold is Picasso clownfish.
The True Percula Clownfish is the smallest of all the clownfish reaching size around 3 inches in length.
Maroon Clownfish Size
The Maroon Clownfish is a saltwater fish from the Maroon Complex. It’s found in the Indo Pacific and into the Australian Archipelago, including India. They are one of the most aggressive types of clownfish.
The Maroon Clownfish is the biggest of all the clownfish reaching size around 7 inches length.
Clarkii Clownfish Size
The Clarkii Clownfish is a small saltwater fish from the Clarkii Complex. It is found in the Indo-West Pacific Ocean.
Full Grown Clarkii Clownfish can reach size around 4 to 5 inches in length.
Tomato Clownfish Size
The Tomato Clownfish is a saltwater fish native to the Western Pacific.
Full Grown Tomato Clownfish can reach size around 5 inches in length.
Factors That Influence Clownfish Growth Rates
It’s very hard to estimate the size your clownfish will reach. There are so many factors that determine the growth rate of one fish. The type, the gender, or its overall health.
And, even if the clownfish belong in a certain type, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it will grow like the others. Just like humans, all adult fish don’t have the same size. Here are the things that have the most influence on the clownfish growth rate :
Food and Tank Size
Regular feedings and tank size will have the biggest impact on the clownfish size. In smaller tanks, the high nitrates and the irregular feedings can affect its growth.
Sexual Maturity
Sexual maturity plays a big role, as well. In general, females are larger than males. If there is more than one clownfish in the tank, sexual maturity will occur sooner.
Overall Health
The overall health of clownfish is an important growth factor, as well. Health problems in its early stages of life can limit its growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for a clownfish to grow full size?
Usually, it takes 2 to 3 years for the clownfish to reach full-grown size.
What is the biggest clownfish?
The Maroon Clownfish is the biggest of all the clownfish reaching sizes up to 7 inches.
How fast do clownfish grow?
The growth rate of a clownfish will depend on many factors. Usually, you can expect to grow to around 2-3 inches in a span of 2 years.
Final Thoughts
If you are interested in keeping clownfish, then learning how big they can get is the first thing you should do. Setting up an appropriate tank according to its size is a vital part of keeping clownfish.
In general, clownfish are small fish, so you won’t need a large tank to keep them. Now I’d like to hear from you. What’s the biggest clownfish you have ever seen?
Let me know in the comments below!
