clown fish pairing?

[CoralBeauties]

I know that clowns are able to change sex from male to female but will they change the other way if 2 females might be in the same tank?  I have a single clown and would like to add another clown for a mate.  I have notice the existing clown acting like it is laying eggs on the underside of a rock so I figured it is a female.  I wasnt sure how to go about being somewhat sure that I purchased a male?
thanks
Jeff

[Steve]

I think all clowns are born male so if you get a small one it may give you a good chance. What type do you have? Some clowns once they have established territory are difficult to add partners with. Tank size can play a roll also.

[CoralBeauties]

She has been the only one in the tank for quite some time.  My tank is a 180 and the clown is a Ocellaris Clown.  I have been afraid to add another for just the same reason you mentioned.  I have never forgot when I was new at this and added a new maroon clown to an existing clown being in a 30 gallon tank.  I would have never thought a fish could be so brutally mean.
Jeff

[HUNGER]

a female cant not change back to a male

[Ashlar]

Correct, it goes from juvenile (unsexed) -> male -> female, and that direction is one-way.

If you think you have a female, get a fish smaller than your current one, which hopefully means it's a juvenile or male.

[Steve]

In a tank that size with ocellaris you can actually do a small school. I think my nephew had 5 in a 120. I have always wanted to do a tank with a Ritteri anemone and a school of ocellaris or perculas.

[micki]

I've added a new clown a few different times with great success!  Make sure the new clown is much smaller and you will be fine.  There will be a little picking from the female to make sure he knows his place but other than that all should be fine.