Cooperation

The community structure of Clownfish (Amphiprion nigripes) often revolves around a family group and the hierarchy is established based on size and dominance. Within a sea anemone, there is typically a dominant breeding pair, a larger female and a smaller male, responsible for laying and guarding the eggs. The male guards the nest, ensuring the eggs are well-aerated, and both parents protect the eggs from potential threats.

The remaining individuals in the community are smaller and subordinate, non-breeding individuals often offspring from previous breeding cycles, that help with various tasks such as defending the territory and caring for the eggs. This cooperative behavior benefits the entire group.