For the first time, domestic researchers have successfully bred a population of clownfish, including mutant strains that sell for between 300,000 to 1 million VND each.
This information was shared by Mr. Ho Son Lam, Deputy Head of the Marine Organism Breeding Department at the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute, on June 8. According to Mr. Lam, the breeding of clownfish is part of a project approved by the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, with a budget of 1.8 billion VND.
“The purpose of the project is to replace the declining natural clownfish populations while aiming for export to markets in China, the USA, Taiwan, and Europe,” Mr. Lam stated, adding that the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute is the first in the country to successfully breed this species.
Clownfish successfully bred at the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute. (Photo: Bui Toan)
Clownfish, scientifically known as Amphiprion ocellaris, are characterized by their orange and red colors mixed with white stripes, typically living in warm water coral reefs and rocky outcrops.
In Vietnam, clownfish are caught from the Spratly Islands, with an annual catch of about 3,000 to 5,000 fish, primarily between March and June. Clownfish are currently one of the most popular marine ornamental fish.
Wild clownfish are known for their beautiful colors and larger sizes but have poor adaptability. In contrast, artificially bred fish have a high survival rate and are easy to raise with industrial feed.
To breed clownfish artificially, scientists at the institute use clay pots to mimic coral reefs for the fish to lay eggs. The bottoms of the pots are drilled with holes to facilitate aeration during the incubation process.
Clownfish being bred at the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute. (Video: Bui Toan)
The successful breeding process results in fish reaching sizes of 3-5 cm after four months, which can be sold on the market for 35,000 to 40,000 VND each. Fish measuring 6 cm or larger are capable of reproduction.
Currently, the research team has successfully bred three mutant strains of clownfish: mocha storm, frostbite, and snowflake. These mutant fish are sold to businesses and aquarium enthusiasts at prices ranging from 300,000 to 1 million VND each, which is 20 times the price of regular clownfish.
