Clownfish are a snorkeling photographer’s dream. They are often found in shallow water and rarely stray far from the protection of their host anemone, making them ideal, predictable subjects. A special mucus coating protects the clownfish from the anemone’s stinging tentacles, while those same stings deter potential predators.

This relationship is mutually beneficial. Clownfish help their anemone by removing parasites, increasing water circulation, and supplying nutrients through their waste. In return, the anemone provides shelter and protection. More than 30 species of clownfish inhabit the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific.

Fun fact: All clownfish are born male. Within each anemone, the largest individual is the female, followed by a breeding male and several non-breeding subordinate males. If the female dies, the largest male changes sex and becomes the female, while the next largest male takes over as the breeder. This unique social system maximizes reproductive success within the limited habitat of the anemone.