Red Anemonefish – Amphiprion rubrocinctus

The Australian Anemonefish, Red Anemonefish, or Redgirdled Anemonefish, scientifically known as Amphiprion rubrocinctus, is a vibrant and captivating species of fish belonging to the family Pomacentridae. These fish are renowned for their striking coloration and symbiotic relationship with sea anemones. This comprehensive description will delve into the fascinating characteristics, habitat, taxonomy, and feeding habits of the Amphiprion rubrocinctus.

Description & Characteristics

The Amphiprion rubrocinctus is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 12.0 cm. Its body is characterized by a striking reddish-orange coloration, adorned with a distinctive white band that encircles the body just behind the head, giving rise to the name “Redgirdled Anemonefish.” The fins, including the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, are edged with a black margin, adding to its visual appeal. The Amphiprion rubrocinctus exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females being larger than males.

Habitat and Occurrence

The Amphiprion rubrocinctus is found primarily in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, with a depth range of 1.0 to 8.0 meters. These fish are commonly found in association with various sea anemone species, particularly those belonging to the genus Stichodactyla. Their distribution spans a range of marine zones, including the coral reefs, rocky reefs, and lagoons of the Indo-Pacific.

Taxonomy

The species Amphiprion rubrocinctus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Ovalentaria incertae sedis, and Family: Pomacentridae. This classification places it within a diverse group of fish, commonly known as damselfishes, which are renowned for their vibrant colors and often territorial nature.

Feeding

The Amphiprion rubrocinctus is an omnivorous species, feeding on a varied diet. Their feeding habits include consuming various invertebrates, such as amphipods, copepods, brine shrimp, and krill. They also supplement their diet with algae, plankton, and even small crustaceans. Their diet can be further enriched with commercially available foods, including pellets, flakes, and frozen foods.