Have clownfish changed?

[ClownSchool]

My first experience in the hobby was with a fish only tank about 30 years ago and the percula clown I had then was quite different from what I see today. Its fins were much longer, their bodies fuller, and they had more of a graceful, flowing presence.
The few long-finned varieties I see advertised today just don’t compare.
Am I missing something? Did that particular wild breed become protected like yellow tangs? Or, has the industry bred that characteristic from the hobby?

 

[Tahoe61]

I agree that today's clownfish look very different than the wild clowns we used to get.
Unfortunately wild caught clowns succumb to the common clown pathogens. It's probably no longer financially viable to collect for trade in the US.
The coloration of wild Percula is so much more rich than captive bred in my opinion.
I have never been into designer clowns. Stubby body, with long fins is not attractive to me.

 

[Cheese Griller]

In the pursuit of designer patterns the overall structural quality of clowns has really declined. "wild type" ocellaris have fared better than perculas in my opinion, I have yet to see a CB perc in stores that even comes close to the wild pair that I have.

 

[ClownSchool]

I agree that today's clownfish look very different than the wild clowns we used to get.
Unfortunately wild caught clowns succumb to the common clown pathogens. It's probably no longer financially viable to collect for trade in the US.
The coloration of wild Percula is so much more rich than captive bred in my opinion.
I have never been into designer clowns. Stubby body, with long fins is not attractive to me.

Yeah, between the vibrant color and flowing, fan-like fins, it was the show piece to have in a 30 gallon. I haven’t seen anything like it since returning to the hobby in 2021.

 

[ClownSchool]

In the pursuit of designer patterns the overall structural quality of clowns has really declined. "wild type" ocellaris have fared better than perculas in my opinion, I have yet to see a CB perc in stores that even comes close to the wild pair that I have.

Have to admit I’m jealous. If you have a good picture, I like to see it.

 

[Cheese Griller]

Have to admit I’m jealous. If you have a good picture, I like to see it.

I’m currently out of town but will grab one when I get back!

 

[djf91]

I also prefer the wild caught clowns over the goofy designer varieties you see today. I have a pair of PNG Perculas. No issues with disease or eating.