It is a member of the skunk complex with the characteristic white stripe along the dorsal ridge line, from the midline of the snout through to the base of caudal fin.

Despite the similarity in appearance, genetic results indicate that A. pacificus is well differentiated from A. akallopisos and is more closely related to A. sandaracinos which has a uniform coloration and the white stripe on the dorsal ridge extends onto the superior lip.

[3] 3 other species of anemonefish are found within its range, A. barberi, A. chrysopterus and A. clarkii, however these are easily distinguished by the absence of the white stripe on the dorsal ridge.

Like corals, anemone's contain intracellular endosymbionts, zooxanthellae, and can suffer from bleaching due to triggers such as increased water temperature or acidification.

[6][7] A. pacificus has each of these characteristics, being an endemic species, with small local population and only one host anemone suggest that it is of particular conservation concern.