ORA Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish Captive-Bred for Sale
The ORA Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish (Premnas biaculeatus) is a hardy saltwater species prized for its deep maroon body and golden banding that develops with age. Unlike wild-caught maroons, captive-bred individuals adapt more quickly to aquariums, show improved survival rates, and handle the stress of acclimation better. Known for their bold personality, they thrive when provided with the right environment and make a striking centerpiece for reef and fish-only systems.
Key Facts
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Premnas biaculeatus |
| Family | Pomacentridae |
| Origin | Captive-bred (ORA, Florida USA) |
| Max Size | 6+ inches |
| Purchase Size | 1–2 inches |
| Lifespan | 5–7 years average |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Minimum Tank Size | 30 gallons (Single) 50 for Pair |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive |
| Reef Safe | With caution (C6oral safe but may defend territory) |
| Diet | Omnivore – pellets, frozen, algae |
| Temperature | 75–78°F |
| pH Range | 7.0–8.5 |
| Salinity | 1.020–1.026 |
Appearance
Juveniles display a deep maroon body with three white vertical stripes. As they age, usually between 9–12 months, these stripes transition to gold, starting with the head bar. Mature females grow significantly larger than males, often exceeding 6 inches, while males remain closer to 3–4 inches. The contrast of maroon and gold gives them a commanding presence in any aquarium.
Care & Requirements
The ORA Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish thrives in a stable marine environment. A single fish can be kept in a 30-gallon tank, or a bonded pair in a 50 gallon though larger systems reduce territorial disputes. Maintain water at 75–78°F, pH 7.0–8.5, and salinity between 1.020–1.026. Provide live rock to create hiding places and natural boundaries. While not essential, they often accept Bubble Tip Anemones (Entacmaea quadricolor) as a host.
Feeding is straightforward, as they are omnivores. Offer a variety of foods including high-quality pellets, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and algae-based options such as spirulina pellets. Feed 2–3 small meals daily, each consumed within minutes.
What size tank is best for a Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish?
A 30-gallon tank is the minimum, though larger setups reduce aggression and improve compatibility.
Do they need an anemone to survive?
No, they can thrive without one, but they often accept Bubble Tip Anemones when present.
How often should they be fed?
Feed small portions 2–3 times daily, finishing each meal within a few minutes.
Tank Mates & Compatibility
Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish are among the most territorial clownfish. They defend nesting sites aggressively, especially females. Suitable tank mates include gobies, blennies, tangs, wrasses, and dwarf angelfish. Invertebrates such as cleaner shrimp, snails, and urchins also pair well. Avoid housing them with other clownfish, timid species, or equally aggressive fish.
Can two Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish live together?
Yes, but only if paired properly as juveniles or introduced as a bonded pair.
Which species should be avoided?
Avoid other clownfish, small timid fish, or highly aggressive tank mates.
Aquaculture/Availability
The ORA Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish is consistently captive-bred in controlled aquaculture facilities. This ensures disease-resistant specimens that adapt quickly to prepared foods and aquarium life. Because breeding cycles limit supply, availability can be unpredictable, making it important to purchase when in stock.
Are ORA Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish always captive-bred?
Yes, all ORA specimens are captive-raised and never sourced from the wild.
Why choose captive-bred over wild-caught?
Captive-bred fish are hardier, adapt better to aquariums, and are less prone to disease.
Why Buy From Oceansgarden.com
- Captive-Bred & Sustainable: Many of our fish and invertebrates are captive-bred or sustainably sourced to promote healthy reef ecosystems.
- Expert Care Before Shipping: Every animal is maintained under professional aquarium standards for health, diet, and water quality.
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FAQ
How large do female Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish get compared to males?
Females often reach 6 inches or more, while males remain smaller, around 3–4 inches. This size difference is common across clownfish species.
At what age do the stripes turn gold?
The white juvenile stripes typically shift to gold between 9–12 months, beginning with the head bar and followed by the mid and tail bars.
Do Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish require a reef tank?
They thrive in both reef and fish-only aquariums. In reef tanks, they may defend territory but coexist with corals if given adequate space.
What is their average lifespan in captivity?
With proper care, captive-bred Gold Stripe Maroons live 5–7 years on average, with some exceeding this in stable systems.
Can they be kept with anemones other than Bubble Tip?
Yes, though Bubble Tip Anemones are most readily accepted. They may occasionally host other large anemone species.
How do you establish a bonded pair?
Pairing works best by introducing a smaller juvenile with an established female. Monitor closely for aggression, as mismatches may lead to conflict.
Are they suitable for beginner aquarists?
They are best for intermediate keepers due to territorial behavior, though their hardiness makes them forgiving once tank size and compatibility are considered.
What makes ORA’s Gold Stripe Maroon different from wild-caught?
ORA-bred fish are healthier, disease-resistant, and accustomed to prepared diets, giving them a higher long-term survival rate.
| size | 1-2 inches |
|---|
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