Clownfish · Pomacentridae
Care levelExpert
McCulloch's Clownfish
Amphiprion mccullochi
McCulloch's Clownfish has nearly black adult body with single broad white head bar, pale snout and white caudal fin. This anemonefish is associated with Lord Howe Island region and nearby eastern Australian islands. A localized subtropical species. Prefer documented captive-bred stock and verify the breeder temperature guidance rather than assuming a typical warm reef suits it.
Uncommon species, uncertain captive requirements or subtropical conditions call for experienced, species-specific planning.
Recommendation
Would you recommend this fish for a suitable saltwater aquarium?
55+ galRecommended tank
4.7 inchesAdult size
Semi-aggressive / territorialTemperament
Generally compatibleCoral safety
+ Why you’ll love them
- Distinctive McCulloch's appearance.
- Can be kept in a thoughtfully planned marine or reef aquarium.
- Omnivorous feeding allows a varied marine-food menu.
- Captive-bred stock may be available; confirm the seller and lineage.
! Things to consider
- A localized subtropical species. Prefer documented captive-bred stock and verify the breeder temperature guidance rather than assuming a typical warm reef suits it.
- Avoid mixing clownfish species or unplanned adult groups.
- An anemone has separate lighting, maturity and equipment needs.
- Quarantine new arrivals and confirm they eat before purchase.
- Species-specific captive data are limited; specialist planning is recommended.
Tank and habitat
- Recommended volume
- 55 US gallons or larger; allow for stocking and layout.
- Full-grown size
- 4.7 inches (maximum adult size)
- Tank footprint and swimming space
- Use a rectangular layout with separate sheltered territories and open feeding space. The 55-gallon figure is a conservative planning recommendation, not a stocking guarantee.
- Tank maturity
-
6 months recommended
Suggested minimum age: 6 months. A completed nitrogen cycle and consistently stable water are essential; calendar age alone does not establish readiness. Suggested tank age is a planning guide, not proof of readiness. Complete cycling, stable water and the right food supply are essential. - Habitat and equipment
- Stable filtration, sheltered rockwork, open feeding areas and a fitted lid. An anemone is not required for routine captive care; research any host separately.
Care and compatibility
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive / territorial
- Why this care level
- Uncommon species, uncertain captive requirements or subtropical conditions call for experienced, species-specific planning.
- Suitable tank mates and conflicts
- Appropriately sized community fish; avoid predators, persistent bullies and competing clownfish. A calm community is especially important for shy individuals.
- Alone, pair or group
- Keep one fish or one established compatible pair. Do not add an unfamiliar adult or assume a group will remain compatible.
Corals and invertebrates
- Coral safety
-
Generally compatible
Generally compatible. Repeated hosting contact may irritate some corals; monitor the chosen territory. - Shrimp safety
-
Generally compatible
Generally compatible with established ornamental shrimp; tiny shrimp and larvae may be eaten. - Snail safety
-
Generally compatible
Generally compatible with ordinary aquarium snails; observe the individual fish. - Clam safety
-
Generally compatible
Generally compatible with clams. Monitor for persistent irritation or unusual picking.
Food and feeding
- Diet
- Omnivore; varied marine foods and suitable algae-containing preparations
- Feeding plan
- Offer appropriately sized marine pellets or flakes plus varied frozen marine foods in small portions, usually twice daily. Include suitable algae-containing preparations and check every fish feeds.
- Prepared or live food
- Ask the seller to demonstrate feeding. Captive-bred individuals often accept prepared food; newly imported fish may need a slower transition.
Water conditions
- Temperature
- Subtropical species: confirm the breeder or specialist temperature range before purchase. Do not assume a warm tropical reef is appropriate.
- Specific gravity
- Maintain stable marine salinity, typically about 1.023–1.026 specific gravity for a reef aquarium; match livestock needs and acclimate gradually.
- pH
- Maintain stable marine pH, generally 8.1–8.4, with appropriate alkalinity and gas exchange.
Long-term care
- Lifespan
- A reliable typical captive lifespan for this species or named variety is not established in the cited references. Plan for a long-term commitment and ongoing care.
- Growth and future planning
- Reported species length is approximately 12 cm (4.7 inches); females are often larger than males. Do not select an aquarium based only on juvenile sale size.
Before you buy
- Is this fish right for your tank?
- Plan for an adult in at least 55 US gallons as a conservative Fish Match starting recommendation, with additional space for pairs and tank mates. A localized subtropical species. Prefer documented captive-bred stock and verify the breeder temperature guidance rather than assuming a typical warm reef suits it.
- Buying checklist
- Confirm species, captive-bred or collection origin, legal sourcing, feeding response and body condition. For a pair, ask whether the fish are already compatible. Request species-specific advice for uncommon fish.
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