The DaVinci Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) is a captive-bred designer variant recognized for its irregular, flowing white markings that replace the straight bars of standard ocellaris clownfish. Each specimen develops a unique pattern through selective breeding, offering visual individuality while retaining the durability and predictable behavior that make ocellaris clownfish one of the most trusted reef species.

This designer clownfish is well suited for aquarists seeking a distinctive centerpiece without advanced care demands. DaVinci Ocellaris Clownfish adapt quickly to aquarium life, readily accept prepared foods, and perform reliably in stable reef systems. Their captive-bred origin improves acclimation success, reduces disease risk, and supports sustainable aquaculture practices. Due to selective breeding schedules and grading variability, availability can be limited, especially for higher-grade specimens.

Appearance

DaVinci Ocellaris Clownfish feature irregular white patterning that appears swirled or brush-stroked across an orange body with black edging. Pattern density varies by grade, with higher grades showing increased white coverage and fused markings. No two individuals display the same pattern, making each fish visually distinct.

Care & Requirements

DaVinci Ocellaris Clownfish thrive in well-established saltwater aquariums with stable parameters and consistent maintenance. A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is appropriate for a single fish, while pairs benefit from 30 gallons or more to allow natural territorial spacing. Moderate water flow and standard reef lighting are sufficient for long-term health.

They accept pellets, flakes, frozen mysis shrimp, and enriched brine shrimp, allowing for a varied and balanced diet. While a host anemone is not required, individuals may establish territory around rockwork or soft corals. Stability in salinity and temperature has a greater impact on success than the presence of an anemone.

Do DaVinci Ocellaris Clownfish need an anemone?
No, they thrive without an anemone and adapt well to reef tanks without one.

What tank size is recommended for a bonded pair?
A minimum of 30 gallons helps reduce territorial behavior and supports stable pairing.

Are DaVinci clownfish suitable for beginners?
Yes, they are considered one of the most beginner-friendly designer clownfish varieties.

Tank Mates & Compatibility

DaVinci Ocellaris Clownfish are peaceful and compatible with most reef-safe community fish. Suitable tank mates include gobies, blennies, firefish, cardinalfish, and non-aggressive wrasses. Avoid housing them with aggressive clownfish species or highly territorial damselfish, especially in smaller aquariums.

Only one clownfish pair should be kept per tank unless the aquarium is large enough to support separate territories. Juveniles introduced together are more likely to form stable pairs with minimal aggression.

Can DaVinci Ocellaris Clownfish be kept together?
Yes, bonded pairs coexist well when introduced correctly.

Are they aggressive toward other fish?
They are generally peaceful but may defend a small territory near their chosen area.

Can they live with other clownfish species?
Mixing clownfish species is not recommended in most home aquariums.

Aquaculture/Availability

DaVinci Ocellaris Clownfish are consistently captive-bred through selective breeding programs focused on Amphiprion ocellaris. Captive breeding produces fish with improved hardiness, predictable temperament, and strong feeding responses, while reducing pressure on wild reef populations.

Pattern grade and breeding schedules influence availability, and higher-grade specimens may be released in limited numbers. Choosing captive-bred individuals supports sustainable aquaculture and increases long-term aquarium success.

Are DaVinci Ocellaris Clownfish captive-bred?
Yes, they are produced through established captive-breeding programs.

Do captive-bred clownfish adapt better to aquariums?
They typically acclimate faster and show higher survival rates.

Are all DaVinci clownfish the same grade?
No, grading varies based on white pattern coverage and fusion.

FAQ

How big do DaVinci Ocellaris Clownfish get when fully grown?
They reach a maximum adult size of about 3 inches, with females typically growing larger than males. Growth rate depends on diet quality and long-term tank stability.

What is the difference between DaVinci and Extreme DaVinci clownfish?
Extreme DaVinci specimens display significantly more fused white patterning across the body, while standard DaVinci varieties show less extensive coverage.

Are DaVinci Ocellaris Clownfish reef safe with corals and invertebrates?
Yes, they do not nip at corals or harm common reef invertebrates.

How long do DaVinci Ocellaris Clownfish live in captivity?
With proper care, they commonly live between 10 and 15 years in home aquariums.

Can DaVinci clownfish host corals instead of anemones?
Yes, they may adopt soft corals or rock structures as a surrogate host.

Do DaVinci Ocellaris Clownfish change sex?
Yes, they are protandrous hermaphrodites, meaning the dominant individual becomes female over time.

Are DaVinci Ocellaris Clownfish suitable for nano reef tanks?
They can be kept in nano reefs of 20 gallons or larger with proper filtration and maintenance.