Percula Clownfish Care Guide
The Percula Clownfish (Amphiprion percula) is one of the most iconic marine fish in the UK. Known for its bright orange body with white bands edged in black, it's a favourite for reef aquariums and beginners alike.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about Percula Clownfish care, including tank size, water conditions, compatibility, feeding, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about Percula Clownfish
Percula Clownfish are small marine fish found in coral reefs, often living among sea anemones. They are closely related to Ocellaris Clownfish but typically have thicker black edging around their white stripes.
They are hardy, peaceful, and ideal for reef tanks.
Amphiprion percula
6-8 cm
Indo-Pacific
75L (20gal)
6-10 years
Peaceful, territorial around host
24-26°C
Omnivore (pellets, frozen, live foods)
8.1-8.4
£20-£50 per fish
How Many Percula Clownfish Should You Keep?
Percula Clownfish are best kept singly or in pairs.
- A single fish is suitable for most tanks
- A bonded pair is ideal and often more interesting to observe
- Avoid keeping multiple individuals unless in large tanks
Keeping more than two can lead to:
- Territorial aggression
- Fighting and stress
They naturally form pairs, with one becoming dominant (female).
Ideal Tank Conditions for Percula Clownfish
Providing stable marine conditions is key to their health.
- Tank Setup: Marine or reef tank with live rock
- Substrate: Sand or reef substrate
- Live Rock: Provides hiding spaces and territory
- Water Conditions: Stable salinity and high water quality
- Filtration: Strong filtration with protein skimming recommended
- Lighting: Moderate to reef-level lighting
Anemones are not required but can be kept in more advanced setups.
Compatibility with Other Fish
Percula Clownfish are generally peaceful and reef-safe.
- Good Tankmates: gobies, blennies, tangs, wrasses (non-aggressive), and other peaceful reef fish
- Avoid: aggressive species and other clownfish (unless a pair)
They may become territorial around their chosen area or host.
Are Percula Clownfish Easy to Care For?
Percula Clownfish are easy to care for and are one of the best beginner marine fish.
They require:
- Stable water parameters
- A mature tank
- Regular feeding
- Careful acclimation
They are hardy and adapt well to aquarium life.
Percula Clownfish Price in the UK
In the UK, Percula Clownfish typically cost between £20-£50 per fish.
Prices vary depending on:
- Wild-caught vs captive-bred
- Colour quality and markings
- Shop vs hobbyist sellers
Designer or premium variants may cost more.
Where to Buy Percula Clownfish in the UK
Percula Clownfish are widely available in UK marine aquarium shops and from hobbyists.
Sourcing fish locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Improve survival rates
- Offer better value
TankMate UK helps connect aquarists who want to buy, sell, or rehome marine fish safely - without shipping.
Can You Sell Percula Clownfish?
Yes - Percula Clownfish are often bred and sold by hobbyists.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises stress for the fish
- Avoids the risks of shipping
- Connects you with responsible aquarists
TankMate UK allows you to list fish quickly and find local buyers.
Feeding Percula Clownfish
Percula Clownfish are omnivorous and easy to feed.
Key Tips:
- Feed high-quality marine pellets or flakes
- Supplement with frozen foods like mysis shrimp and brine shrimp
- Offer small, regular feedings
- Provide a varied diet
They are not picky eaters and adapt well to prepared foods.
Common Problems with Percula Clownfish
Territorial behaviour, often caused by:
- Small tank size
- Presence of other clownfish
Stress or poor condition, linked to:
- Poor water quality
- Inadequate acclimation
Disease (e.g. marine ich), caused by:
- Introduction of infected fish
- Poor quarantine practices
Why Percula Clownfish Are So Popular
- Iconic "clownfish" appearance
- Hardy and beginner-friendly
- Peaceful and reef-safe
- Interesting pairing behaviour
- Widely available
When kept correctly, Percula Clownfish are colourful, engaging fish that bring life and personality to marine aquariums.
Frequently Asked Questions
Percula typically have thicker black edging on their white bands and are slightly less common.
No, they can thrive without one.
Yes, as a bonded pair.
At least 75 litres, with stable marine conditions.
Looking to Buy or Sell Percula Clownfish Locally?
TankMate UK connects aquarists who want to buy, sell, or rehome marine fish safely within their local area.
Whether you're stocking your reef tank or passing fish on to a new home, you can:
- Browse listings near you
- List your own fish in minutes
- Avoid the risks of shipping
Explore local listings with TankMate UK and find the right additions for your aquarium.