Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackback anemonefish (Amphiprion frenatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 14 cm.
Western Pacific; lagoon reefs and bays, in symbiosis with sea anemones.
Description
The tomato clownfish is a damselfish of the family Pomacentridae from the western Pacific. The species grows to about 14 cm and has a bright tomato-red body; juveniles and males have a single white crossbar behind the head, while large females become darker and uniformly red. It lives in lagoon reefs and bays in symbiosis with large sea anemones: thanks to a protective mucus layer it is immune to the stinging cells and shelters among them from predators. Each anemone hosts a monogamous pair with a dominant female. All individuals are born male; the largest changes into a female (protandry). As an omnivore it feeds on zooplankton, algae and small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackback anemonefish?
The Blackback anemonefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Tomato red with a single white head bar; lives monogamously among sea anemones, born as a male (protandry).
Where does the Blackback anemonefish live?
The Blackback anemonefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific; lagoon reefs and bays, in symbiosis with sea anemones.
How big does the Blackback anemonefish get?
The Blackback anemonefish grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Blackback anemonefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackback anemonefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackback anemonefish edible?
The Blackback anemonefish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Amphiprion
More from the family Pomacentridae
Want the complete picture on the Blackback anemonefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackback anemonefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.