Discover The 13 Best Clownfish Tank Mates For Your Aquarium

Clownfish are an extremely popular and colorful addition to any aquarium. However, choosing the right tank mates is crucial to their health and happiness. 

In this article, I’ve compiled a list of 13 best clownfish tank Mates, their details, and additional information.

The ideal tank mates for Clownfish include:

1. Yellow Tang
2. Chromis Damselfish
3. Mandarin Dragonet (Mandarinfish)
4. Red Coris Wrasse
5. Pygmy Angelfish
6. Blood Red Fire Shrimp
7. Basslets
8. Butterflyfish
9. Dartfish
10. Pseudochromis
11. Flame Hawkfish
12. Royal Dottyback
13. Blennies

13 Suitable Tank Mates For Clownfish

Yellow Tang

The Yellow Tang (Zebrasoma flavescens) is a vibrant addition to any reef aquarium. They are known for their bright yellow body and narrow, oval shape. 

Yellow Tangs are generally peaceful but can exhibit territorial aggression, especially towards other tangs. They tend to swim in schools of 8 to 20 members in the wild, but in a home aquarium, it is advisable to keep them singly to prevent territorial aggression and disease. However, they are excellent tank mates for clownfish.

The distinct difference in appearance between clownfish and Yellow Tangs minimizes aggressive interactions, making them a harmonious addition to a clownfish tank. They are particularly compatible with larger clownfish species like Maroon and Clarkii Clownfish.

With an adult size averaging 6 to 8 inches, Yellow Tangs require a minimum tank size of 100 gallons to accommodate their active swimming habits. 

Their diet should include a mix of frozen and prepared foods rich in protein and vegetables like cucumber and cauliflower. Spirulina-based supplements are also essential to prevent nutritional deficiencies.

They are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for novice and experienced aquarists. 

Keypoint of Keeping Yellow Tangs with Clownfish

1. Yellow Tangs tend to ignore clownfish due to their different appearance, reducing the likelihood of aggression.

2. These fish are excellent algae eaters, helping to keep the tank clean.

3. A large tank of at least 100 gallons is necessary to provide ample swimming space.

4. Yellow Tangs can be susceptible to ich disease and Lateral Line Disease, which requires careful attention and a balanced diet.

Chromis Damselfish

Clownfish themselves are a type of Damselfish, and many Damselfish species are known for being territorial and aggressive towards their tank mates. However, Chromis Damselfish are a notable exception to this trend, making them an excellent choice for pairing with clownfish in your aquarium.

Chromis Damselfish are peaceful, schooling fish. They are smaller than many other Damselfish species, making them an ideal addition to a clownfish tank.

A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for Chromis Damselfish, especially when keeping them in a school. They are active swimmers and spend most of their time in the middle water column.

They are primarily feed on plankton. They also require a balanced diet including frozen, freeze-dried, live foods and vitamin-enriched flakes.

The two most commonly available species are the Green Chromis and the Blue Reef Chromis. The Green Chromis typically grows to about 4 inches, while the Blue Reef Chromis can reach over 5 inches. 

Both species are excellent for beginner saltwater aquarists due to their hardiness and ease of feeding. Their hardiness also means they are less susceptible to diseases, a significant plus for aquarists. They are also commonly bred in captivity, which helps reduce the pressure on wild populations.

Keypoint of Keeping Chromis Damselfish with Clownfish

1. Chromis Damselfish are known for their peaceful temperament.

2. Chromis Damselfish are schooling fish that thrive in groups.

3. A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for keeping Chromis Damselfish, especially when keeping them in a school.

4. Green Chromis and Blue Reef Chromis are praised for their hardiness and ease of feeding.

Mandarin Dragonet

Known for its vibrant colors and distinctive patterns, the Mandarin Dragonet (Synchiropus splendidus) Is a unique and ideal tank mate for clownfish.

They inhabit entirely different zones within an aquarium compared to clownfish. They tend to crawl along live rock using their well-developed fins, searching for copepods, which form the central part of their diet. This separation in habitat within the tank ensures minimal interaction and conflict with clownfish, making them compatible tank mates.

Mandarin Dragonets require a mature reef tank with plenty of live rock, as they specialize in eating copepods found on the rock. Once established, they may also accept other foods such as Mysis Shrimp, brine shrimp, and pellets. Despite their dietary needs, they are peaceful and can live for 10 to 15 years with proper care.

Keypoint of Keeping Mandarin Dragonets with Clownfish

1. Mandarin Dragonets are non-aggressive, making them harmonious companions for clownfish.

2. They inhabit different areas of the tank, reducing competition for space.

3. Their striking colors and patterns add a unique beauty to the aquarium.

4. They primarily feed on copepods and require a mature reef tank with a well-established copepod population.

5. Mandarin Dragonets are challenging to care for and not recommended for beginners.

6. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fast-swimming fish that might outcompete them for food.

Red Coris Wrasse

The Red Coris Wrasse (Coris gaimard) is known for its striking appearance and compatibility with larger, more aggressive clownfish species.

Red Coris Wrasses are semi-aggressive, making them ideal tank mates for the larger, more assertive clownfish species. They thrive in both fish-only and reef aquariums, provided there are no mobile invertebrates, as they feed on small clams, snails, and shrimp. Their semi-aggressive nature allows them to coexist peacefully with clownfish, angelfish, and boxfish, though they may show aggression towards their species.

Juvenile Red Coris Wrasses are bright scarlet red with white saddles, resembling elongated clownfish. As they mature, they develop a mesmerizing rainbow pattern of blue dots, growing up to 12 inches long, although 8 inches is more common in home aquariums. 

Red Coris Wrasses require regular feeding of chopped shellfish and frozen invertebrates supplemented with prepared foods. They prefer water temperatures between 72 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit and need a tank of at least 100 gallons to accommodate their active swimming habits and size.

Keypoint of Keeping Red Coris Wrasse with Clownfish

1. Their semi-aggressive temperament matches well with larger clownfish species, ensuring a balanced tank environment.

2. The transformation from juvenile to adult brings a breathtaking array of colors and patterns to the aquarium.

3. They can be aggressive toward other Red Coris Wrasses, so it’s best to keep them singly.

4. They feed on invertebrates, helping to keep the tank clean.

5. Avoid keeping them with smaller Clownfish that could become prey.

Pygmy Angelfish

Pygmy Angelfish (Centropyge species) are an excellent choice as tank mates for clownfish due to their manageable size and vibrant colors. While angelfish generally can coexist with clownfish, the smaller Pygmy Angelfish are particularly well-suited because they are less likely to exhibit aggressive behavior that is sometimes seen in larger angelfish species.

Pygmy Angelfish are primarily grazers, feeding on bryozoans, algae, sponges, and other encrusting organisms found on live rock. Due to their specific dietary preferences, most species are not reef-safe. However, their vivid colors and outgoing temperaments make them a delightful addition to a clownfish aquarium. They are peaceful to semi-aggressive, but their size similarity with clownfish helps maintain harmony in the tank.

Keypoint of Keeping Pygmy Angelfish with Clownfish

1. Their smaller size makes them a good match for clownfish.

2. Generally peaceful and avoid conflicts with clownfish.

3. Most species are not compatible with reef tanks due to their grazing habits.

4. Specific dietary requirements may require additional preparation.

5.  Avoid keeping Pygmy Angelfish with larger, more aggressive fish species.

Blood Red Fire Shrimp

Blood Red Fire Shrimp (Lysmata debelius) are among the most popular marine invertebrates in the aquarium hobby. Their small size and peaceful nature make them excellent companions for smaller clownfish species like the Common Clownfish and Pink Skunk Clownfish.

Blood Red Fire Shrimp are part of the Lysmata species, known for their cleaning behavior. They use their long, brilliant white antennae to signal fish, inviting them over to remove loose scales, skin, and parasites.

In addition to their cleaning duties, these shrimp will readily consume any fresh or prepared foods offered. However, they flourish on a varied diet that includes algae, organic particles, flakes, pellets, and any prepared foods suitable for marine invertebrates.

These shrimp are hardy but tend to be shy, often spending most of their time hidden when in tanks with bright lighting. It requires a tank setup that mimics their natural habitat, with plenty of hiding spots and dim lighting to reduce stress. They are more active at dusk and during the night, scavenging for missed flakes and pellets.

Keypoint of Keeping Blood Red Fire Shrimp with Clownfish

1. Their calm demeanor makes them ideal tank mates for clownfish.

2. They help maintain the health of other fish by removing parasites and loose scales.

3. They will eat a variety of foods, including prepared and fresh options.

4. They tend to hide in brightly lit tanks, reducing their visibility. So, Use dim lighting to encourage more daytime activity and reduce stress.

Basslets

Basslets are a group of Atlantic marine fish that make excellent tank mates for clownfish. The Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto) is the most common species within this group, renowned for its striking purple and yellow bicolor pattern that makes it the star of any aquarium. Other popular species include the Blackcap Basslet (Gramma melacara) and the various Assessor Basslets (Assessor species).

Basslets are mostly peaceful but can be territorial, often claiming a single cave or grotto. They will fiercely defend their chosen territory, nipping at any intruders. This territorial behavior, however, does not pose a problem for clownfish, as they are not cave dwellers and are similar in size to basslets, making them a great match.

Basslets are carnivores that thrive on a diet of marine plankton, Mysis shrimp, and brine shrimp. They require slightly subdued lighting and plenty of hiding spots in caves or grottos to feel secure. Maintaining these conditions helps to reduce stress and territorial aggression.

Keypoint of Keeping Basslets with Clownfish

1. Basslets and clownfish can live harmoniously together since clownfish do not invade the basslets’ preferred hiding spots.

2. Due to their differing habitat preferences within the tank, their territorial nature does not interfere with clownfish.

3. Avoid housing them with other basslets or larger, more aggressive fish to prevent stress and aggression. 

4. They prefer subdued lighting, which may complicate maintaining sea anemones for clownfish.

5. To keep them healthy, offer a diet rich in marine plankton, Mysis shrimp, and brine shrimp.

Butterflyfish

Butterflyfish (Chaetodon kleinii), with their stunning array of colors and patterns, make an excellent addition to a clownfish tank. Butterflyfish are generally peaceful and can coexist harmoniously with clownfish. 

However, they tend to nip at invertebrates and corals, so they are best suited for fish-only tanks or carefully monitored reef setups. Their preference for swimming in areas with ample oceanic plants and reefs means they will appreciate a well-decorated tank with plenty of hiding spots and swimming spaces.

Butterflyfish thrive in tanks with a minimum size of 125 gallons to accommodate their active swimming habits and size, which can reach up to 8 inches. They require a diet rich in plankton, artemia, and sponge-based frozen food. Regularly monitoring nitrate levels is crucial, as they are sensitive to nitrate poisoning.

Keypoint of Keeping Butterflyfish with Clownfish

1. They can live harmoniously with clownfish, adding to the diversity of your tank.

2. Their active swimming patterns bring life and movement to the tank.

3. They may nip at invertebrates and corals, requiring careful monitoring in reef tanks.

4. They are prone to diseases like Black Ich and Dropsy, which must be managed carefully. Maintain optimal water quality to prevent these diseases.

Dartfish

Dartfish are generally peaceful with other fish species, making them ideal companions for clownfish. The name “Dartfish” comes from their elongated bodies and habit of darting swiftly between rocks and sand, adding dynamic movement to any aquarium.

However, their temperament varies when it comes to their kind. For instance, Fire Dartfish cannot tolerate each other, while Zebra Dartfish can be kept in groups without issues. This adaptability makes them versatile additions to community tanks and nano reef systems. However, They should not be kept with more aggressive clownfish species like Tomato or Maroon Clownfish to prevent stress and potential conflicts.

Dartfish need a tank with a minimum size of 30 gallons, where they can enjoy open water and plenty of hiding spots among rocks and sand. They prefer water temperatures between 72 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Their diet should include a variety of foods such as plankton, brine shrimp, and high-quality marine pellets.

Keypoint of Keeping Dartfish with Clownfish

1. Their darting behavior adds lively movement to the tank.

2. Growing up to 4 inches, they are well-suited to share a tank with clownfish.

3. Some species, like Fire Dartfish, cannot tolerate their kind. It is best kept singly or in huge tanks.

4. Should not be kept with more aggressive clownfish species like Tomato or Maroon Clownfish.

Pseudochromis

Pseudochromis, or Dottybacks, are a group of vibrant and active fish. Pseudochromis are known for their aggressive nature, especially towards similar species. 

However, they can coexist with clownfish in a well-structured tank (minimum size of 30 gallons). To minimize territorial disputes, it is essential to ensure that your tank is large enough and provides plenty of hiding spots. Keeping no more than three Pseudochromis in a tank is recommended to prevent them from becoming too aggressive towards each other and their tank mates.

Pseudochromis need heavily reefed tanks with ample hiding spots and areas for egg-laying. They prefer water temperatures between 72 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Their diet should include a mix of dried and frozen worms, shrimp, and fish flakes.

Keypoint of Keeping Pseudochromis with Clownfish

1. They can coexist with clownfish when correctly managed, especially in larger tanks.

2. They need a large tank to minimize territorial disputes and aggressive behavior.

3. Ensure the tank is heavily reefed with plenty of hiding spots to reduce aggression.

4. Avoid keeping them with smaller or similarly aggressive fish to prevent conflicts.

Flame Hawkfish

The Flame Hawkfish (Neocirrhites armatus) are a favorite among aquarists due to their engaging personalities and ease of care. They lack a swim bladder, an organ that helps most fish float, so they use their fins to perch on corals or rocks to observe their surroundings. This behavior is reminiscent of hawks, hence their name. Like their namesakes, they are also known for diving down on their prey.

Flame Hawkfish are generally compatible with clownfish, making them a suitable tank mate. However, they are predatory towards small invertebrates, which can be problematic in a mixed-species tank. Keeping them with larger, more robust invertebrates and fish that they cannot easily prey upon is crucial. Their territorial nature means they may become aggressive if their space is invaded.

Flame Hawkfish require a minimum tank size of 30 gallons, though a larger tank of at least 40 gallons is recommended to provide ample space and reduce territorial disputes. The ideal water temperature for Flame Hawkfis is 72 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Their diet should include a variety of dried and frozen foods, such as worms, shrimp, and fish flakes.

Keypoint of Keeping Flame Hawkfish with Clownfish

1. They get along well with clownfish and other robust fish species.

2. They are relatively easy to care for in a fish-only tank.

3. They may eat small shrimps and other invertebrates.

4. Avoid keeping them with small invertebrates or similarly aggressive fish to prevent conflicts. They can become aggressive if their territory is invaded.

Royal Dottyback

Royal Dottybacks are known for their territorial and sometimes aggressive behavior, especially towards smaller or similarly sized fish. However, they can coexist with clownfish in a well-structured tank. Ensuring the tank has plenty of hiding spots and is adequately sized can help mitigate potential aggression. Keeping only one Royal Dottyback per tank is advisable to prevent territorial disputes.

This small yet strikingly colorful fish needs a tank size of 30 gallons and water temperatures between 72 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Their diet should include a mix of high-quality marine pellets, flakes, and frozen foods such as brine shrimp and Mysis shrimp.

Keypoint of Keeping Royal Dottyback with Clownfish

1. Their striking purple and yellow coloration adds visual appeal to the tank.

2. They are resilient and easy to care for, making them suitable for novice and experienced aquarists.

3. They can be territorial and aggressive towards similar-sized fish or other Dottybacks.

4. A well-sized tank with plenty of hiding spots is necessary to minimize aggression.

Blennies

Often mistaken for miniature eels due to their shape, these small fish add both beauty and functionality to the aquarium.

Blennies are peaceful and non-aggressive, making them excellent companions for clownfish. They are bottom-dwellers, typically staying close to the substrate, which helps them occupy a different area of the tank than clownfish. This separation reduces potential conflicts and creates a more harmonious tank environment.

Blennies are hardy and easy to care for, making them ideal for beginner aquarists. Their diet includes a variety of marine algae, small crustaceans, and high-quality marine pellets or flakes.

Keypoint of Keeping Blennies with Clownfish

1. Blennies are relatively inexpensive and suitable for aquarists on a budget.

2. Their non-aggressive nature ensures they get along well with clownfish.

3. As bottom-dwellers, they occupy a different part of the tank, reducing territorial disputes.

4. They prefer tanks with sand or gravel substrates, which may require additional setup.

Final Words

I hope this article gave you a clear idea about what tank mates are suitable for your Clownfish. Personally, I like to keep my cherry shrimps in a dedicated tank of their own. I don’t mind a few Blood Red Fire Shrimp, but nothing else.

If you want to keep some tank mates, choose the suitable ones from the list above for a higher survival rate for your Clownfish.