Clownfish pairing behavior?

dustin · 10-04-2001, 03:09 PM

My two new small maroon clowns have been in the corner of the tanks since I got them, and they seem to be pairing? They dance around each other and rub heads and bodies. They tend to go head to tail to head nonstop. I have pushed them apart to see how they are swimming and are just fine. But they find each other, go back to the corner they where in and begin this ritual. Now I want themn to pair of course so I am assuming this is the pairing dance? One has started to darken so I assume this will be the female.

They are both about 3/4 inch long.

Thanks,
Dustin T
Atlanta

OodleyBoodely · 10-04-2001, 03:15 PM

Sounds like they are establishing dominance. The dominate fish will mature as the female. Just let them work things out on their own. Once they have established their pecking order and become aquainted with their surroundings, they will come out of hiding.

FishDaddy · 10-04-2001, 03:17 PM

Dustin,
Sounds typical of a couple of juvenile "buddies". They are both males but as they mature, one will become the dominatrix and you should have a pair!
Dick

JennM · 10-04-2001, 07:38 PM

Hi Dustin!

I think you and I have met at TRS in Alpharetta!

Have you considered joining the Atlanta Reef Club? It's FREE!

http://www.atlantareefclub.org

BTW I concur with the other posters, sounds like they are working out the "who's who" and becoming a pair!

Congratulations!

JennM