Breeding and Hybridization of Clownfish Amphiprion ephippium × Amphiprion melanopus in Captivity

Abstract

Development of broodstock, spawning, and early rearing of the hybrid clownfish, Amphiprion ephippium (♂) × Amphiprion melanopus (♀), was studied under captive conditions. The fishes were successfully paired after being together for over a year. Spawning occurred between 0700 to 1000 hours every 3 weeks. More than 200 eggs were spawned each time, with an egg size of 1.5 ± 0.5mm. Fertilized eggs turned from bright orange to black to silvery before hatching after being incubated for 7–9 days. Out of 20 batches of eggs spawned, 5 batches were successfully hatched, with only 2 batches surviving to adulthood. The average survival rate for all the batches hatched was 21.16%. Newborn larvae measured about 3–4 mm long, with transparent fins that fused, forming a single fin fold. Larvae underwent metamorphosis on day 10 post hatched, where the fins started to separate, form, and develop body colorations. Two clear and thick bands were observed on the body (head and middle) as early as 14-day post hatched to 90-day post-hatched, where the banding reached its peak. The middle band then began fading as the juveniles grew. By 130-day post-hatched, the juveniles became adults with unique coloration featuring a headband and a black blotch, reaching the maximum size of 34 mm. The hybrid clownfish underwent metamorphosis earlier and reached marketable size much sooner compared to its parent species, making it a suitable candidate for ornamental fish culture. It is the first documentation on the production of hybrid clownfish A. ephippium and A. melanopus both in Malaysia and worldwide.