Question: Adding second ocellaris clownfish

[cet98]

I am looking to get information from the clownfish experts here at R2R :)

I have a single 1-1/2” ocellaris clownfish that I’ve had a for a couple of weeks and I found another 1-1/2” ocellaris clownfish at a LFS that I specifically wanted based on its coloration. This clownfish is also in a tank without any other clowns as well.

My understanding is that 1-1/2” clownfish are generally regarded as still in the juvenile stage but I also heard that solitary clownfish can turn female if left solo for a time.

Can those of you with far greater experience and knowledge please help educate me on whether or not I can bring these two together….
or are the chances of failure far higher than the chances of success.

TIA

 

[exnisstech]

I'm no expert but I don't like trying to add a second until I'm confident the first is a female then I add the smallest male I can find but most people don't like to wait that long and often just add two and let them short it out. When I have paired clowns which isn't dozens if times but I have paired maroons in addition to ocelaris with success this is what I have done.
I did add two a few days apart the last time i paired a couple of black ocelaris. I bought the largest meanest one from a clutch at the store then a few days later I went to a different store and bought the smallest most submissive one from a clutch amd it was smooth sailing. If you do try it I would recommend using an acclimation box.

 

[cet98]

I'm no expert but I don't like trying to add a second until I'm confident the first is a female then I add the smallest male I can find but most people don't like to wait that long and often just add two and let them short it out. When I have paired clowns which isn't dozens if times but I have paired maroons in addition to ocelaris with success this is what I have done.
I did add two a few days apart the last time i paired a couple of black ocelaris. I bought the largest meanest one from a clutch at the store then a few days later I went to a different store and bought the smallest most submissive one from a clutch amd it was smooth sailing. If you do try it I would recommend using an acclimation box.

Thank you! I really appreciate your input and under normal circumstances, I completely agree with your process.
I too have paired clowns together based on size differences with much success.

In this specific case though, I have found a clown with a very specific color pattern that I absolutely would love to pair my existing clown with.
To make matters more challenging, saltwater fish options in my area are very limited, and finding quality livestock at non-overinflated prices is even more difficult. Designer Clownfish in particular are certainly most hard to find.

This is why I am posting this, in hopes of getting qualified input instead of “google search” answers and see if there is any realistic chance for success here.

Thanks again :)

 

[Uncle99]

To me, there would be a risk of two females at that size.

Once “triggered” (some environmental cue) the process of change to female will complete, but, we talking months for full complete transformation.

I introduce only 1/2”-3/4” clowns to an unknown other gender of any size for potential pairing.

If the new fish is real important to you, consider moving both a QT size tank to see what happens, if it’s hard to get one out.

You can always try, but need a plan if the pairing doesn’t work.

 

[cet98]

To me, there would be a risk of two females at that size.

Once “triggered” (some environmental cue) the process of change to female will complete, but, we talking months for full complete transformation.

I introduce only 1/2”-3/4” clowns to an unknown other gender of any size for potential pairing.

If the new fish is real important to you, consider moving both a QT size tank to see what happens, if it’s hard to get one out.

You can always try, but need a plan if the pairing doesn’t work.

Thank you!
Unfortunately 1/2”-3/4” juveniles don’t seem to be readily available in my area…
Would an acclimation box be an effective way to see if there is aggression between the two?
Meaning, without actual physical contact, will just sight alone trigger female to female aggression?

Thanks!

 

[Uncle99]

Thank you!
Unfortunately 1/2”-3/4” juveniles don’t seem to be readily available in my area…
Would an acclimation box be an effective way to see if there is aggression between the two?
Meaning, without actual physical contact, will just sight alone trigger female to female aggression?

Thanks!

Yes, Great first step!
Let’s see what interest (if any) the existing one has with the new.
Love the idea.
I do that with any new addition