Clownfish depressed??

[Nanook]

This is going to sound strange, but I've been thinking about my humongous pair of ORA Clarkii Clownfish I have that have started laying eggs after being in the tank for about 3 years. They lay eggs every couple weeks on the back overflow and protect them fiercely. The eggs always hatch (I assume) and then other fish eat them? Does this cause despair for the breeding pair??

I know, it sounds goofy

 

[gone fishin]

post partem depression maybe :lmao:

 

[Mavrk]

Considering the clowns probably eat their share, I would say that they are happy with the extra snacks and that helps

 

[Kayo2289]

If I ate my kids... acid reflex would be hitting me something fierce... and with as much experience you got I should be asking you your question haha

 

[Toxic45]

This is probably an answer that would upset most people, but I don't really think clownfish are developed enough to have emotions such as depression. It is true that they'll snatch up some of the babies and eggs and have them as a snack, so sad can you really be if you're just getting a quick bite? They do defend them, but I believe that it's just instinct that guides their behavior and not so much emotion as we would perceive them.

 

[Stu Pickles]

If they dye their fins black and start listening to My Chemical Romance........ then you should start worrying. lol