The Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish is one of the most striking and personality-filled clownfish you can add to a saltwater aquarium. With deep maroon coloration and bold golden bands that intensify as they mature, this fish quickly becomes the centerpiece of many reef tanks. They’re hardy, long-lived, and full of attitude—which makes understanding their care and temperament essential for success.

Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish Care & Tank Requirements

Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish (Premnas biaculeatus) are relatively hardy, making them suitable for aquarists with some saltwater experience. They thrive in stable, well-maintained systems with plenty of rockwork and swimming space.

  • Tank size: Minimum 30 gallons for a single fish; 55+ gallons is recommended for a pair.
  • Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C).
  • Salinity: 1.024–1.026 specific gravity.
  • pH: 8.1–8.4.
  • Diet: Omnivore – high-quality marine pellets, frozen mysis, brine shrimp, and occasional meaty foods.

Feed small portions 1–2 times daily and vary the diet to keep colors vibrant and immunity strong. A well-fed Gold Stripe Maroon will display rich coloration and active, confident behavior throughout the day.

Pro tip: Use a feeding ring or target-feeding technique to ensure your clownfish gets its share of food without overloading the tank with excess nutrients.

If you’re still planning your system, you might find our beginner reef tank setup guide helpful before committing to this bold species.

Temperament, Compatibility & Pairing

Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish are beautiful but notoriously territorial. This species often becomes the “boss” of the tank, especially as it matures into a dominant female.

Tankmates to Choose (and Avoid)

  • Good tankmates: Larger, assertive species such as tangs, dwarf angels, and robust wrasses.
  • Use caution: Peaceful gobies, firefish, and small cardinals may be bullied in smaller tanks.
  • Avoid: Other clownfish species and similarly shaped, timid fish in confined systems.

When pairing, start with a noticeably smaller juvenile introduced to an established larger individual. Rearranging some rockwork before introduction can help diffuse aggression. Provide multiple caves and overhangs so subdominant fish have escape routes.

Pro tip: Add Gold Stripe Maroons later in your stocking order. Let more peaceful fish settle first so they’re not immediately intimidated.

Anemones, Reef Safety & Long-Term Care

While they don’t require an anemone to thrive, Gold Stripe Maroons often form strong bonds with hosts like Bubble Tip Anemones. If you decide to keep an anemone, ensure your tank is mature (6+ months), lighting is adequate, and water parameters are stable.

These clownfish are considered reef-safe with corals and clams, although their vigorous hosting behavior may cause them to rearrange loose pieces. Secure coral mounts and keep an eye on any delicate species that might be repeatedly brushed or shadowed.

  • Perform regular 10–20% weekly or bi-weekly water changes.
  • Maintain strong, consistent filtration and moderate flow.
  • Monitor aggression levels as the fish matures and grows in size.

For more on choosing corals that can handle energetic clownfish behavior, see our guide to best beginner corals. If you’re building a mixed reef community, our reef-safe fish list can help you plan compatible tankmates around a dominant clownfish.

With proper planning, tank size, and thoughtful stocking, the Gold Stripe Maroon Clownfish can be a stunning, long-term showpiece in your marine aquarium. Respect its bold personality, give it room to rule, and you’ll be rewarded with years of vibrant color and fascinating behavior.