The Skunk Clownfish or Amphiprion akallopisos is a peaceful saltwater fish that is found in the Indo-Pacific. This species of Clownfish is also known as the Nosestripe Anemonefish and has a very special relationship with its best friend the anemone. The Skunk Clownfish has an immunity in their skin which allows them to make their home inside the stinging tentacles of an anemone. They will actually defend it from other would be dwellers. The female of this species will not only charge and try to intimidate potential invaders, but will also use sounds to defend the anemone. They produce a series of pops and chirps that scare off the other fish. In return for living space the anemone is given fish waste which it feeds on and is kept clean of parasites.
Skunk Clownfish can grow to about 3" (75mm) in length and are often kept in an aquarium setting. They are easily identified by a white stripe that runs on the top of their bodies, from their lips to their tail. Like other species of Clownfish, they are considered to be quite easy to take care of, but this kind does require an anemone to make its home. In the wild this fish is found in shallow inshore reefs as deep as 15 meters with a moderate to strong current. They will feed on small crustaceans, live foods, algae and vegetable based foods. You can learn a little more about the Skunk Clownfish and some other amazing underwater symbiotic relationships in the video below.
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