I had 3 clownfish yesterday, now I have 2

[salty joe]

A little over two years ago, I got three small clowns and two bonded after awhile. I think they are either Allard's or orange fin clowns. The female is about 3 1/2" and her mate is about 3".

Suddenly, the smallest (by a tiny bit) clown is gone. There was always some chasing but not nonstop. Everyone got plenty to eat. No biting or ragged fins. No fights. The tank is well covered. Everything looks fine.

Is it common for a mated pair of clowns to destroy the third wheel? That's the only thing I can think of.

 

[blaxsun]

Yep. Three's company until it's a crowd...

 

[salty joe]

Thanks, it's surprising to me that it happened so suddenly.

 

[Uncle99]

Maybe she’s about to lay a clutch.

 

[rja]

That is what usually happens with 3 clowns. Check around your tank to see if it jumped ship. Otherwise make sure it’s not dead somewhere in your tank.

 

[salty joe]

It could not have jumped out. I did check the overflow. The tank is big with loads of inaccessible hiding spots, bugs and worms should clean up, I'll keep my eye on things. Thanks.

Maybe she’s about to lay a clutch.

They've been doing that vibration move for a few months at least. But yeah, that makes sense.