Spotcinctus Clownfish

Also known as the Spot-banded Clownfish or White-bonnet Clownfish

The Spotcinctus Clownfish is a rare and distinctive species featuring a rich brown to orange-brown body with a single bold white head band and characteristic white spotting on the dorsal fin. Native to the waters around Queensland, Australia, and parts of the Western Pacific, this uncommon clownfish brings unique coloration and fascinating behavior to specialized marine aquariums. Their rarity and unusual appearance make them a prized addition for dedicated clownfish enthusiasts.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Amphiprion bicinctus
• Common Names: Spotcinctus Clownfish, Spot-banded Clownfish
• Adult Size: 4–5 inches (10–12.5 cm)
• Lifespan: 8–12+ years with proper care
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; moderately territorial
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe – will not harm corals or invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (40+ gallons recommended for pairs)
• Experience Level: Intermediate

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide host anemone or suitable coral substitute (Hammer, Frogspawn, Torch corals), ample live rock with caves and overhangs, and moderate water flow with sheltered areas.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 74–78°F (23–26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.023–1.025
  • pH: 8.1–8.4
  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: <20 ppm
• Compatibility: Best kept with peaceful to semi-aggressive community fish. More territorial than standard Ocellaris. Avoid housing with other clownfish species in tanks under 75 gallons. Suitable in pairs or singly.

Diet & Feeding

Spotcinctus Clownfish are hardy omnivores with enthusiastic appetites:

• Meaty Foods: Mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped krill, chopped seafood
• Pellets/Flakes: High-quality marine pellets, spirulina-based formulas, color-enhancing foods
• Plant Matter: Marine algae sheets, spirulina
• Supplements: Vitamin-enriched and garlic-enhanced foods for immune health
• Feeding Schedule: Feed 1–2 times daily in appropriately sized portions

Notes & Considerations

• Behavior: More assertive than standard Ocellaris clownfish. Establishes strong territory around the host area. Bold and interactive once settled. Pairs form strong bonds with dominant fish becoming female.
• Unique Coloration: Rich chocolate-brown to burnt orange body with single white head band and distinctive white spots on dorsal fin. Coloration may vary slightly between individuals.
• Coral Compatibility: Completely reef-safe. May host in Bubble Tip Anemones, Magnificent Anemones, or substitute with Euphyllia corals.
• Acclimation: Use careful drip acclimation over 60 minutes minimum. Allow time to settle as they may be initially shy. Dim lighting during first 24 hours helps reduce stress.
• Health: Generally hardy when properly acclimated. Quarantine strongly recommended due to rarity and value. Monitor for marine ich and velvet during acclimation period.
• Rarity: Less commonly available than standard clownfish varieties, making them a unique collector’s choice.

Why Choose a Quarantined Spotcinctus Clownfish?

Our quarantined Spotcinctus Clownfish have been professionally acclimated, health-screened for parasites and disease, and conditioned to accept a variety of prepared foods. Each rare specimen is carefully observed for 3–4 weeks to ensure robust health, proper feeding response, and vibrant coloration, giving you confidence that this uncommon beauty will thrive as a distinctive centerpiece in your marine aquarium.