by Amber Hilton

Created on: May 26, 2007

You might know them as "Nemo" from the popular Disney movie, but those adorable and brightly colored salt-water fish are actually called Clownfish. In nature, Clownfish are found in the Eastern Indian and Western Pacific Oceans. Since the release of the animated film, Clownfish have become the "in" pet that every fish enthusiast, child and adult alike, are eager to own. However, before you go out and buy your own little Nemo, there are a few things you should know about what is involved in caring for a Clownfish.

Most experts would agree that Clownfish require a significant amount of care in comparison to other fish, such as the goldfish that inhabit many pet-owners homes. Unlike goldfish, Clownfish need warm salt water that is similar in chemical makeup to actual seawater to survive.

A Clownfish can't survive in any old fishbowl like your average goldfish can. Fish experts suggest that Clownfish be housed in an aquarium that measures at least 90cm x 30cm x 38cm. You also need a good filtration system, and various chemicals, meters and test kits to make sure that the water always has the right balance of chemicals.

While most small Clownfish are priced as low as $15, don't let the low cost trick you into thinking that they are cheap pets. Your aquarium set up alone can cost several hundred dollars once you include the filtration system.

Of course, there are benefits to owning a Clownfish. Clownfish do tend to have good personalities as far as fish go and can be fun to watch. They also stay relatively small, making them easier to care for.

Because Clownfish have become so popular, there are a huge number of them being bred in captivity. These fish are a more environmentally conscious choice and are more resilient because they don't have to survive the rigorous journey from the ocean. They are also less likely to carry diseases and less aggressive than wild Clownfish. They will also be more accustomed to people and prepared foods than a Clownfish that is removed from the wild.

If you do opt for a clown fish, experts suggest buying either a single fish or a mated pair, as clownfish can be territorial and tend to fight with each other when placed in the same aquarium.

Clownfish are typically associated with anemones, as they seek protection within them in the wild. However, in captivity, clownfish do not require an anemone to survive and thrive. Experts actually caution people against anemones because they do not survive well once removed from their original habitat.

For an adult with knowledge and experience in caring for marine fish, keeping a Clownfish should be no problem, but don't expect your young child, eager for a Nemo of their own, to be able to handle the responsibility.

Make sure you learn as much as you can about the proper care before you decide to get a Clownfish as a pet. Not only is it a significant financial investment, but remember that they are living, breathing creatures and should be no more disposable than any other family pet.

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