I have two phantom clowns, one larger and one smaller. They were swimming and hanging out together in an anemone at the fish store so I bought them together. I have them in a 20 gallon tank with a clay pot, live rock and a couple corrals (I am just starting out). The larger one has claimed the pot and won't let anything come near it. She will allow the smaller clownfish to be right next to it but not in it. My question is although they swim together and the smaller one stays near the clay pot at all times, just beside it, the larger one will not allow him inside. The larger one has cleaned the pot out and rearranged a few little rocks inside it. Because they are not sleeping together in it, does this mean they are not pairing? The smaller one won't leave the bigger one's side really, he just isn't allowed in the pot yet unless there is danger like me putting my hand in the tank if I have to do something. Then the larger clown will allow him inside. I have witnessed some shaking when the larger one nips at the smaller one, which I know is a good sign. I read that paired clowns sleep together so I am worried. Has anyone else experienced this? Is it normal for the female to claim a territory? Thanks for the help.
Quick question about pairing
- Thread starter severitis
- Start date
hotelbravo
Active member
I dont think they are paired yet there still may be something going on with them but I think that it isnt really abnormal and I would expect the female to be less aggressive and allow the male to enter the pot once their pairing ritual is over
Just my opinion
Just my opinion
