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Ocellaris Clownfish (Black & White) (Amphiprion ocellaris (captive-bred black & white variant))

Ocellaris Clownfish (Black & White)

Amphiprion ocellaris (captive-bred black & white variant)
Family
Clownfish
Care level
Beginner
Temperament
Semi-aggressive
Reef safe
Reef safe
Max size
8 cm
Min tank
100 L · 26 gal
Origin
Captive-bred (selectively bred from Indo-Pacific Amphiprion ocellaris)
Diet
Omnivore
Food
Marine pellets, Mysis, Brine shrimp, Nori, Flake food

Overview

The Black & White Ocellaris is a striking captive-bred colour variant of the standard ocellaris clownfish, with the usual orange base colour replaced almost entirely by black, offset by clean white banding. It retains all the hardiness and easy-going nature of the standard ocellaris while offering a completely different look for the display tank.

As a fully captive-bred fish it tends to be very disease-resistant and well adapted to aquarium conditions, making it one of the easiest and most reliable marine fish available for new and experienced keepers alike.

It shares the same social and hosting behaviours as other ocellaris variants, readily adopting a host anemone or coral if one is available, though it does perfectly well without one.

Compatibility

Black & White Ocellaris Clownfish are generally peaceful but can become territorial once paired or established with a host, particularly toward other clownfish added later. They mix well with the vast majority of reef community fish, gobies, wrasses, and peaceful tangs.

They are fully reef safe and won't bother corals or invertebrates.

Health & quarantine

Being captive-bred, this variant is typically very hardy and disease-resistant, transitioning easily onto prepared aquarium foods. A standard quarantine period of two to four weeks is still good practice, though this species generally has few issues during acclimation.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Black & White Ocellaris a different species from the standard orange one?
No, it's the same species (Amphiprion ocellaris), just a selectively bred colour variant.
Do Black & White Ocellaris need an anemone?
No, they do well without one, though they may host in an anemone, coral, or powerhead if given the option.
Is the Black & White Ocellaris reef safe?
Yes, fully reef safe with corals and invertebrates.
Can I keep two Black & White Ocellaris together?
Yes, as a mated pair — introducing them as small juveniles together tends to work best to avoid aggression.
Is the Black & White Ocellaris good for beginners?
Yes, it's hardy, easy to feed, and tolerant of a wide range of conditions.

Care guidance is drawn from our own experience — every fish is an individual, so treat it as a starting point, not a guarantee. Not sure if a species suits your tank? Come ask us in store. New to the terms? Read the care-terms glossary.