Can clowns damage nem?

[RedFrog211]

I’m sure this is a stupid question, knowing how delicate nems can be. My clownfish, which I’ve had for about 4 months, have finally paired up and as of the past 48 hours, started hosting my BTA. It’s a relatively small nem, probably 1.5-2” diameter when open. Tonight, I witnessed what I assume is them “getting ready for bed” and being rather rough with the nem, both head-butting it. It’s foot is in a hole in the rock, and if it needs to, it can retract into the rock work. I went out and purchased a second BTA to hopefully share the load, once it acclimates and adjusts obviously. Do they only host at night, hopefully allowing the nem a chance to heal, or should I keep a cautious eye out? Again, sorry if this is a dumb question. Though not new to the reef scene, this symbiotic relationship is new to me!

 

[Spieg]

Clowns can absolutely get over zealous with their host anemone. Some breeds of clown are worse than others in this regard. Once a clown takes a liking to a host, it will spend most of it's time in/near said host, and may even try to run off other fish from the area.

 

[RedFrog211]

The two ocellaris are the only two fish in the tank. I hope they don’t harm the nem too much.. I’ve been feeding the BTA twice a week (not stuffing it though) hoping to help it grow larger

 

[vetteguy53081]

I seen more than one nem pummeled and trampled on by clowns

 

[tnewell]

Shouldnt have to feed the nem to much, maybe once a week. Clowns should feed the nem for you if they are indeed being hosted