How to Identify Pink Skunk Clownfish

To identify Pink Skunk Clownfish (Amphiprion perideraion), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is predominantly a delicate pinkish-orange to peach color. A prominent, narrow white stripe (the 'skunk' stripe) runs along the dorsal midline from the snout, over the head and back, extending to the base of the caudal fin. A second, less distinct, vertical white bar is typically present immediately behind the eye, sometimes extending slightly onto the operculum. Fins are generally translucent or slightly tinted with the body color. The intensity of the pink/orange coloration can vary based on geographic location, diet, and individual health.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Pinkish-orange body coloration, Single narrow white dorsal stripe from snout to caudal fin base, White vertical bar behind the eye, Maximum total length up to 11 cm (4.3 inches), though typically smaller in aquaria.

Dorsal fin

Typically 9-10 dorsal spines and 17-18 soft rays. The dorsal fin is continuous.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is slightly emarginate to rounded.

Pectoral fin

16-17 pectoral rays, typically clear to slightly yellowish.

Distinctive fins

The fins are generally proportionate to the body, lacking any exaggerated elongations or unique shapes beyond the standard perciform fin structure.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Coloration

   Look for the characteristic pinkish-orange body, which can range from a pale peach to a vibrant salmon color.

2. 2

   Dorsal Stripe

   The most defining feature is the single, narrow, white stripe running along the top of the head and back, from the snout to the caudal fin base. This stripe is typically continuous and distinct.

3. 3

   Post-ocular Bar

   Observe the white vertical bar located immediately behind the eye. This bar can vary in prominence but is usually present.

4. 4

   Host Anemone Association

   In the wild, it is almost always found in association with its specific host anemones, which can aid in identification.

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