If you’re planning to snorkel or dive in the Andaman Sea, get ready to meet more than just the famous “Nemo”! The coral reefs around Phi Phi Islands, Similan Islands, and Surin Islands are home to several species of clownfish. Let’s take a look at five popular clownfish species in the Andaman Sea 🐠🌊
Table of Contents
🧡 1. Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion percula)
This is the star of Finding Nemo, and it’s what most people imagine when they think of clownfish.
- Bright orange body
- Three clean white bands
- Thin black outlines
- Rare in the wild around Thailand, but occasionally found near protected reefs
🌊 You might spot them on a Phi Phi Island snorkeling trip or while exploring reefs near Similan Islands.
🧡 2. Saddleback Anemonefish (Amphiprion clarkii)
A true Andaman local and one of the most widespread species here.
- Yellowish to dark body
- Two or three white vertical bands
- Known for its adaptability to various anemone species
- Great for beginner divers to encounter
📍 Look for this species on Similan snorkeling day trips or Surin Islands snorkeling tours.
❤️ 3. Pink Skunk Clownfish (Amphiprion perideraion)
Fiery red and full of personality!
- Deep reddish-orange body
- One thin white stripe from head to tail
- Bold and photogenic
- Common in shallow reef areas
📷 A perfect sighting during shallow water snorkeling around Maiton Island or Bamboo Island.
🍅 4. Tomato Clownfish (Amphiprion frenatus)
Juvenile and adult tomato clownfish look quite different!
- Juveniles: bright red with a single head stripe
- Adults: darker red body with a more defined stripe
- Strong and territorial — fun to observe!
🎯 Try a Maiton Island snorkeling tour to see this vibrant species.
🔴 5. Red Saddleback Clownfish (Amphiprion ephippium)
One of the rarest and most unique clownfish in the region.
- Deep red or almost black body
- No white bands
- A large, dark patch resembling a “saddle” on the back
- Usually spotted by experienced divers
⚠️ Rare, but possible to encounter in deeper reefs near Similan Islands diving tours.
Why Clownfish Matter
Clownfish are not just adorable—they’re a crucial part of reef ecosystems. They live symbiotically with sea anemones, offering protection and receiving shelter in return. Spotting different clownfish species adds color and excitement to any Thailand snorkeling tour.
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