Pairing a Maroon clown

[jeffmdavis]

I have a Maroon Clown. When I purchased it, I was told it was a gold stripe. However, I am 9 months in and no yellow stripes. I think it may be a normal one. here is the question, If I was to get a small Gold Stripe in hopes they would pair, if this is not a gold stripe will my current one kill him? I know there is a possibility of this anyway. Also, Is it possible that mine is still a gold stripe that has not changed yet? Any help would be appreciated.

 

[oama]

Jeff, they are the same species of clownfish. The golden stripe makes nor difference as to them pairing up. And if you do some research here on RC, you will find several instances where maroon clowns have paired and mated with other clownfish species.

You are correct in the fact that any pairing of clownfish may have difficulties. I would read the stickies at the top of this forum. One by JHardman is on pairing clowns w/ a section specifically about Maroons.

As to the golden stripe developing. It's possible. A lot depends on the age of the fish. But diet also is a factor. Unless you know that your fish is over 3 years old. Captive bred clown are sold very young compaired to their expected lifespan.

 

[traveller7]

The pairing thread by JHardman oama referred to:
http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=215098

 

[jeffmdavis]

Thanks to both for the information. I did not realize that the gold stripes could take up to three years. Mine is at most 1 year old. She has grown from about an inch to close to two to two and one half inches long. What are the diet considerations they need for the Gold stripes? I feed marine flakes and mysis shrimp. Any additional suggestions?

 

[oama]

Just to clairify... I just threw out that figure of three years.

GSM usually start to form the golden color between 9-12 months.

I would fully expect that a 3 year old GSM would have it's golden color.

 

[TOURKID]

make sure your clown gets a good amount of vegis. its supposed to be pretty important. I feed my maroons emerald entree and they love it. wont touch life line, or spiralina flake tho