Clownfish orange coloration

[fishforu]

I've noticed some clownfish have vibrant orange coloration, while another of the same type/species have a dull orange.

The LFS owner said it is a random due to nature. One true perc's orange can be vibrant while another is dull.

However, I have read diet can make the orange more vibrant. It this true? If yes, what should the clown be fed?

In particular, I'm interested in a snowflake or picasso clownfish, but want a vibrant orange coloration. And does it matter if it is wild caught or bred?

Thanks.

 

[RandyReefer]

Yes diet is the main reason a clowns color will be different, you should feed it a variety of foods such as brine shrimp ( live or dead) formula garlic pellets and rods food. ( feed this the most) I have also heard that the type of lighting can cause the colors but I'm not positive about that.


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- Current tank info: 22 gallon, with mated pair onyx percula clownfish

 

[jt_milstead]

Wild caught can be more vibrant.
Lighting and diet can also play a factor. When I got my Picassos from ORA they were very dull. I feed mine mysis, pellets, and a good flake.

 

[sneeze]

asthaxanthin is the stuff! this is what turns salmon pink, clowns orange, and whatnot. rods has a bunch. all "red" foods have some. if you DIY food or want to add it to your existing diets NutraRose is an asthaxanthin powder.