The Twobar Anemonefish, Allard’s Anemonefish, scientifically known as Amphiprion allardi, is a captivating species of fish belonging to the family Pomacentridae. This striking anemonefish is characterized by its vibrant orange body adorned with two prominent, broad, white bands that extend across its body. This distinctive feature gives rise to its common name, “Twobar Anemonefish”.
Description & Characteristics
The Amphiprion allardi is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 15.0 cm. Its body is predominantly orange, with a prominent white band running behind its eyes and another band encircling its dorsal fin. The fish’s fins, including the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, are edged with a black border. The head is relatively small compared to the body, and the snout is slightly pointed. The Amphiprion allardi, like other anemonefish, possesses a symbiotic relationship with host anemones, finding refuge and protection within their stinging tentacles.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Amphiprion allardi thrives in shallow reef environments, typically inhabiting a depth range of 1.0 to 30.0 meters. This species is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the waters of the Philippines, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. Its preferred habitat includes coral reefs, lagoons, and rocky outcrops, where it can readily access its host anemones. The Amphiprion allardi is known to form associations with several species of anemones, most notably the bubble-tip anemone (Entacmaea quadricolor).
Taxonomy
The Amphiprion allardi belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Ovalentaria incertae sedis, and Family: Pomacentridae. This family, known as the “damselfishes”, encompasses a diverse range of fish species, including the anemonefish. The Amphiprion allardi is a member of the genus Amphiprion, which comprises the various species of anemonefish.
Feeding
The Amphiprion allardi is an omnivorous feeder, consuming a varied diet that includes brine shrimps, cyclops, flakes, frozen food (large sort), krill, lobster eggs, mosquito larvae, mysis, pellets, and shrimps. Its feeding habits are opportunistic, and the fish readily scavenges for food in its immediate environment.
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