How long do you let clownfish hash it out before separating?

[Maddlesrain]

Hey all,
I was given a nice black ice clownfish, and added a bullet hole to the tank. They’re both about 1.75-2” and have really started to lip lock and be generally nasty towards each other after a day of relative peace yesterday. From what I understand of clownfish, there’s a chance both are on the road to becoming female, but there’s also a chance they’re both just mature enough to hash it out and decide who will get that opportunity. I’m just wondering how long you let them fight each other before something has to be done. There are some minor fin snags and scuffs, but nothing concerning currently. I put the newer fish in a holding container to let them cool down for a bit, but am not sure when I should release him again, and how long after that I should allow the cage fighting.

Thank you!!

 

[Gareth elliott]

Do you see any signs of the more passive one capitulating?

Will look like swimming by the others side and wagging at it. Does it dive beneath the aggressor but not into a hiding spot. More like saying “yes boss”.

 

[Maddlesrain]

Do you see any signs of the more passive one capitulating?

Will like like swimming by the others side and wagging at it. Does it dive beneath the aggressor but not into a hiding spot. More like saying “yes boss”.

I thought I saw the surrender and they had worked it out earlier, but then they really started to go at it. They have both done the “seizing” towards the other at one point or another. There’s not any clear surrendering on either side, so I can’t even tell who the victor would be now.

The original clownfish has an anemone that she’s fiercely guarding. I’m supposed to pick up a second anemone this afternoon, so I think I’ll re-introduce the other one with the new anemone and maybe they can just camo out at their own “home bases.”

 

[manlykady]

whats a bullet hole

 

[W1ngz]

whats a bullet hole

A clownfish with spots

 

[Maddlesrain]

whats a bullet hole

Sorry I don’t have better photos. They’re probably called something more official, but I’ve seen them called bullet hole because of the holes in the pattern haha

 

[Reef Monster]

I have this exact same pair and haven’t had any issues so far. Following along, though!

 

[Maddlesrain]

I have this exact same pair and haven’t had any issues so far. Following along, though!

Did you introduce them to each other or were they already paired? If you introduced, what sizes were they?