David C. Cook, Wonga Beach, Australia
Info
Amphiprion annamensis was originally listed as a synonym of Amphiprion polymnus (Linnaeus, 1758).
However, as the pattern of Amphiprion annamensis is clearly different from Amphiprion polymnus (Linnaeus, 1758), the species name was reactivated and declared valid.
Identification:
The caudal fin is black, with white edges, the median stripe is shortened and strongly thickened, often appearing almost circular.
The rear stripe is missing.
The body and fins are very variable, from solid orange to solid black; specimens in between develop a black midline.
The main difference is that the central stripe is broad and does not extend to the belly!
Similar species:
Most similar is the Melanesian saddle anemonefish (Amphiprion laticlavius), which has a similar median stripe, but differs in a more yellowish ground color and the development of the dorsum along the back (instead of medially).
Coloration:
It is unclear why this species is so variable in color, as there is no obvious correlation with location, host anemone, size, or sex.
Note on taxonomy: this species was treated as a synonym of Amphiprion polymnus in Allen 1991 and later references. The elevation to full species status in this classification should be considered provisional until a full taxonomic revision is published.
However, as the pattern of Amphiprion annamensis is clearly different from Amphiprion polymnus (Linnaeus, 1758), the species name was reactivated and declared valid.
Identification:
The caudal fin is black, with white edges, the median stripe is shortened and strongly thickened, often appearing almost circular.
The rear stripe is missing.
The body and fins are very variable, from solid orange to solid black; specimens in between develop a black midline.
The main difference is that the central stripe is broad and does not extend to the belly!
Similar species:
Most similar is the Melanesian saddle anemonefish (Amphiprion laticlavius), which has a similar median stripe, but differs in a more yellowish ground color and the development of the dorsum along the back (instead of medially).
Coloration:
It is unclear why this species is so variable in color, as there is no obvious correlation with location, host anemone, size, or sex.
Note on taxonomy: this species was treated as a synonym of Amphiprion polymnus in Allen 1991 and later references. The elevation to full species status in this classification should be considered provisional until a full taxonomic revision is published.
