Tomato Clownfish coloration

[overCee]

I have noticed surprisingly different coloration in Tomato Clowns I have seen in various LFS. Some are a very bright, vibrant orange, and others are much darker looking. Is this coloration a matter of age or are some just brighter than others?

I ask because if I knew a tomato clown would keep its bright color I would get one. But I have a small tank, and don't really want to fill it up with a fish that will one day lose its color.

 

[ChunksInClemson]

Usually the tomato clowns keep their bright orange color unless they are really really old. A lot of LFS's dont know the difference between a tomato and a cinnamon clown. If the fish has a darker appearance, its probably a cinnamon. I guess it does depend on the genetics of the fish whether it is vibrant orange or just orange. The cinnamon has more of a red coloration to it. So with all that said, if you get a true tomato, it should stay relatively the same color as when you bought it unless its like 10 years old. Just find one where you know it has to be a tomato-the brightest orange possible.

 

[overCee]

That is good to hear. I guess I shouldn't be surprised that my LFS is run by idiots. The condition of their tanks already told me that.

I wouldn't mind getting confirmation though. Anyone else?

Thanks again.

 

[stykthyn]

there are quite a few fish in the tomato complex that have similar shape and coloring. Misinformed retailers usually dub most of them "tomato". True tomato's are a bright orange or red and shouldnt darken too much.
I am a fan of the cinammon clowns myself.

 

[CanesDave]

According to this site Tomato clowns the females do tend to be darker than males. I have also seen many tomatos lately that are lighter and seem to have the male coloration but are already large 3-4" and presumably female.