The Maldive Anemonefish, scientifically known as Amphiprion nigripes, is a captivating and vibrantly colored fish found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. This anemonefish species is renowned for its symbiotic relationship with certain sea anemones, finding refuge and protection within their stinging tentacles.
Description & Characteristics
The Maldive Anemonefish, Amphiprion nigripes, is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 11.0 cm. The body of the fish is characterized by its striking black and white coloration. The head and body are typically black, with three distinctive white bands encircling the body. The first band is situated near the snout, the second band encompasses the dorsal fin, and the third band encircles the caudal fin. The fins are generally black, except for the anal fin, which exhibits a white margin. Juveniles of Amphiprion nigripes display a more orange coloration, with the black bands becoming more pronounced as they mature.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Maldive Anemonefish, Amphiprion nigripes, is a common inhabitant of the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. It typically inhabits the coral reefs of the Maldives, often found in association with various species of sea anemones. This anemonefish can be found in a depth range of 2.0 to 25.0 meters, dwelling within the shallow reef environments of the tropical Indo-Pacific. It is a resident of the tropical marine zone, flourishing in the warm, clear waters of the region.
Taxonomy
The species Amphiprion nigripes belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Ovalentaria incertae sedis, and Family: Pomacentridae. This classification places Amphiprion nigripes within the diverse group of fish known as the damselfishes. Within the Pomacentridae family, Amphiprion nigripes is categorized as a member of the genus Amphiprion, which comprises a wide range of anemonefish species.
Feeding
The Maldive Anemonefish, Amphiprion nigripes, is an omnivorous species, displaying a varied diet. Its feeding habits encompass a range of small invertebrates, including amphipods, brine shrimp nauplii, brine shrimps, copepods, cyclops, krill, mysis, and zooplankton. It also consumes a variety of prepared foods such as flakes, frozen food (large and small sorts), pellets, and shrimps. Additionally, Amphiprion nigripes is known to feed on lobster eggs and living food, demonstrating its adaptability to diverse food sources.
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