The Black Phantom Clownfish is a stunning, selectively bred variant of the classic Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris). Known for its deep black coloration, often with white bands and a hint of orange near the face, this fish is a peaceful yet bold addition to any marine aquarium. Like its traditional Ocellaris relatives, it is hardy, adaptable, and easy to care for, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists.
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A Name That Reflects Its Appearance
The "Black Phantom" name comes from its jet-black body and ghostly white banding, which can vary in thickness and shape. Some individuals may retain a slight orange hue on their face and fins, while others become entirely black and white as they mature.
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Growth and Tank Requirements
Black Phantom Clownfish grow up to 3-4 inches, making them well-suited for a variety of marine aquarium sizes. They require a minimum tank size of 20 gallons, though 30+ gallons is recommended if housing them with an anemone or tank mates. Their ideal setup includes:
Live rock structures for hiding and grazing
Moderate water flow
Anemones for hosting (optional but beneficial)
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Care and Water Parameters
Black Phantom Clownfish are incredibly hardy and adaptable, making them great for home aquariums. They thrive in:
Temperature: 75-82°F
pH Range: 8.1-8.4
Salinity: 1.020-1.025
Water Hardness: 8-12 dKH
They do not require anemones to thrive, but they can develop a symbiotic relationship with species like Bubble Tip Anemones (Entacmaea quadricolor) if provided.
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Diet and Feeding
These clownfish are omnivores, requiring a balanced diet to maintain their vibrant coloration and health. Their diet should include:
High-quality marine flakes and pellets
Frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and chopped seafood**
Spirulina, marine algae, and nori for additional nutrients
Occasional live foods to stimulate natural foraging behavior
A diverse diet helps maintain their rich black coloration and supports overall health.
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Unique Behaviors
Black Phantom Clownfish are peaceful yet confident swimmers, often staying near their chosen territory or host anemone. They can be kept alone, in pairs, or in small groups, though they may become territorial with other clownfish species. Like all clownfish, they display a fascinating "wobbling" swimming motion and may form hierarchical social structures.
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Important Considerations
These clownfish are best housed as a mated pair or singly, as multiple clownfish in small tanks may lead to aggression. While they are reef-safe, caution should be taken when pairing them with larger, aggressive fish that may bully or prey on them.
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Please note that these are general guidelines, and for more accurate values, we encourage you to contact Living Aquarium by phone or in person. Within store hours, our team of experts are always happy to answer any questions you may have and provide personalized guidance on care.