ORA Black Ice Snowflake Clownfish for Sale
The ORA Black Ice Snowflake Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) is a premium, captive-bred designer clownfish from Oceans, Reefs & Aquariums (ORA). Known for its dark orange to nearly black body and irregular white bands outlined in black, each fish displays a one-of-a-kind pattern. Its hardy nature and ease of care make it perfect for both new and experienced aquarists. ORA’s selective aquaculture ensures sustainable, disease-resistant specimens that adapt quickly to home aquariums. Limited hatchery production adds to its appeal for collectors seeking a reliable, reef-safe fish with striking coloration and proven health.
Key Facts
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Amphiprion ocellaris |
| Family | Pomacentridae |
| Origin | Captive-bred by ORA (USA) |
| Maximum Size | 3 inches |
| Purchase Size | 1–2 inches |
| Lifespan | 5–10 years |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Minimum Tank Size | 15 gallons (single) 30-40 gallons (pair) |
| Temperament | Peaceful to semi-aggressive |
| Reef Safe | Yes |
| Diet | Omnivore – pellets, mysis, brine shrimp |
| Temperature | 74–82°F |
| pH Range | 8.0–8.4 |
| Salinity | 1.020–1.025 |
Appearance
Juvenile ORA Black Ice Snowflake Clownfish begin with a deep orange or brown base that darkens with age, sometimes becoming fully black in mature specimens. Their signature white bars appear thick and irregular, bordered by black lines that enhance contrast. Each fish has a unique pattern, a hallmark of the Black Ice morph created by crossing Black Ocellaris and Snowflake Clownfish lines.
Care & Requirements
This clownfish thrives in stable reef environments with moderate lighting and live rock for hiding and territory establishment. A 15-gallon tank suits a single, or a 30-40 gallons for a bonded pair. Feed a mix of high-quality marine pellets, frozen mysis shrimp, and enriched brine shrimp. While hosting an anemone isn’t required, they may naturally bond with Bubble Tip Anemones (Entacmaea quadricolor). Gentle flow and consistent water parameters maintain health and color vibrancy.
Can the ORA Black Ice Snowflake live without an anemone?
Yes, they adapt well without one, often associating with coral or rock structures.
What foods keep their color vibrant?
A balanced diet of marine pellets, frozen mysis, and vitamin-enriched brine shrimp enhances pigmentation.
How long do they live?
Typically 7–10 years under stable conditions.
Tank Mates & Compatibility
This clownfish coexists well with peaceful reef fish such as gobies, firefish, and cardinalfish. It’s also safe with shrimp, snails, and crabs. Avoid mixing with other clownfish species in small aquariums to prevent territorial behavior.
Is this clownfish safe with corals and invertebrates?
Yes, it’s fully reef-safe.
Can I keep multiple pairs together?
Only in larger tanks with defined territories.
Do they mix with tangs or wrasses?
They’re compatible with small tangs and non-aggressive wrasses.
Aquaculture / Availability
ORA consistently produces this variant through sustainable aquaculture, ensuring hardy, aquarium-acclimated fish. Availability may vary by breeding cycles. Captive-bred fish from ORA are known for resilience, long-term health, and responsible sourcing that supports reef conservation.
Are all ORA Black Ice Snowflake Clownfish captive-bred?
Yes, all are aquacultured by ORA.
Why choose captive-bred fish?
They adapt easily, resist disease, and reduce wild collection pressure.
Is availability consistent year-round?
Limited batches are released based on breeding cycles.
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.
- Live Arrival Guarantee: We stand behind each shipment with a Live Arrival Guarantee for your peace of mind.
- Fast, Reliable Shipping: Orders are packed with proven methods and shipped overnight to ensure safe arrival.
- Transparent Policies: Clear shipping, refund, and guarantee information available on every order page.
- Trusted by Hobbyists: Backed by years of experience and thousands of satisfied marine aquarium keepers across the U.S.
FAQ
What is the difference between ORA Black Ice Snowflake and regular Snowflake Clownfish?
The Black Ice Snowflake features a darker body, often brown to black, and thicker, irregular white stripes compared to the lighter-toned standard Snowflake.
Is this fish good for beginners?
Yes. It’s hardy, peaceful, and adapts well, making it ideal for first-time saltwater keepers.
How do I encourage pairing?
Keep two juveniles together; one becomes dominant (female). Provide stable water and nesting spots.
Does it need an anemone?
No, but it may host Bubble Tip or Long Tentacle Anemones if present.
What are ideal water conditions?
Maintain 74–82°F, pH 8.0–8.4, salinity 1.020–1.025.
Can it live with larger or aggressive fish?
Avoid large or territorial species that might harass smaller clownfish.
What lighting is needed?
Standard LED reef lighting is sufficient.
Do color patterns change?
Yes, darkening intensifies as the fish matures.
How often should I feed them?
Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily with varied foods for best color and energy.
| size | 1-2 inches |
|---|
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