AMPHIPRION THIELLEI BURGESS, 1981

Thielle's Anemonefish

Original description: As Amphiprion thiellei, from specimens of unknown origin (via a pet shop)

Colour features and size: Reddish-orange with single, relatively narrow white head bar; also small white saddle on top edge of tail base. Maximum length 65 mm.

Similar species: Amphiprion perideraion (eastern Indian - western Pacific oceans) is pink or pinkish-orange without the reddish hue, and has a white stripe along the base of the dorsal fin and down the middle of the forehead. Amphiprion nigripes (Maldives and Sri Lanka) has a black belly, pelvic fins, and anal fin.

Host anemone species: unknown

Distribution: The species was described from two specimens obtained from a pet dealer; their origin is uncertain, although they are believed to have been collected in the Philippines. The species appears to be distinctive in colouration and morphology (especially a low gill-raker count), but until more specimens are studied, its status as a valid species is provisional: it might represent a rare variant of another species or a hybrid. No other specimens have been seen since the two original fish were obtained.