The blue clownfish is a captivating creature that has captured the imaginations of fish enthusiasts worldwide.
At first glance, the concept of a blue clownfish seems almost magical. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that true blue clownfish do not exist in the natural world.
In this article, we will delve into the world of this rare clownfish, exploring its origins, myths, and the truth behind its existence. Read on to find out more!
What Are Blue Clownfish?
Blue clownfish have captivated the interest of fish breeders and enthusiasts. While there isn’t a true blue clownfish species, some sub-species have exhibited blue coloring. These artificially bred specimens showcase electric light blue coloration alongside the white bars outlined in black.
The blue coloration of these blue clownfish, like the ones discovered by Thai aquarist Nattawut Chotsuwan, only covers a portion of the white bars, with the trait yet to be fixed and amplified through line breeding.
While the journey towards a true blue clownfish continues, these unique sub-species offer glimpses of the desired blue trait, captivating the imagination of hobbyists and aquarists alike.
With my special interest in marine conservation, I have had the opportunity to delve into the captivating world of clownfish.
During my extensive research on these fascinating creatures, I have closely examined their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and unique behaviors even in their natural habitat.
The blue clownfish, although a subject of intrigue, remains a mythical entity rather than a true species.
Do Blue Clownfish Really Exist?
A true blue clownfish doesn’t exist naturally in the wild. However, a few types of the same breed have displayed varying degrees of this unique blue coloring.
The sudden popularity of the blue clownfish started in the early 1900s when a marine biologist named Franklyn Sprague dyed a normal clownfish using aniline.
Their existence was further popularized through a fake article that circulated online in 2004. It claimed that a blue clownfish was found in the Great Barrier Reef.
However, it remains true that the rare blue clownfish doesn’t occur naturally and is only a result of genetic mutations done during breeding. They can be found in pet stores but are usually rare and expensive.
Although a natural blue clownfish is yet to be achieved, the exploration and selective breeding efforts continue to offer hope for future advancements in this area of fish breeding.
What Types of Blue Clownfish Have Been Discovered?
As mentioned, a blue clownfish is a product of a rare mutation. One cannot expect to see this color variety in real life. However, some aquarists have discovered species that possess a considerable amount of blue coloring.
Although they are far from what you would expect, these rare blue clownfish are still unique in their own way.
1. Blue Designer Clownfish
Blue Designer Clownfish are a selectively bred sub-species that exhibit electric light blue coloration on the white bars outlined in black. They were discovered by a Thai aqua expert, Nattawut Chotsuwan.
These specimens have a combination of blue and orange or black bars, creating a visually striking appearance.
While not a true blue clownfish, the Blue Designer Clownfish showcases the ongoing efforts of aquarists to enhance the blue coloring in clownfish breeding.
The video below shows what a Blue Designer Clownfish looks like:
2. Blue Tomato Clownfish
Blue Tomato Clownfish, also known as the “villager’s tales,” are accidentally discovered specimens with a navy-blue body and purplish shades at the edges of the tail and fins.
These unique clownfish have a distinct appearance, with a white band running vertically around the head. A private fishkeeping company called iBluewater discovered and named this species.
While they are not considered true blue clownfish, the Blue Tomato Clownfish adds a touch of novelty to the world of clownfish varieties
3. Blue Lighting Clownfish
Blue Lighting Clownfish are specifically morphed clownfish with a stunning full blue iridescent shade reflecting on their skin.
These selectively bred specimens exhibit a beautiful blue coloration throughout their bodies, including the stomach and head regions.
They are the result of cross-breeding between the Hippo Tang and Lightning Maroon Clownfish, giving them their vibrant blue appearance.
The Blue Lighting Clownfish is an eye-catching addition to any marine aquarium
4. Blue Stripe Clownfish
The Blue Stripe Clownfish, also known as the Fijian Lightning Blue Stripe Clownfish, is a unique variety that showcases a high degree of natural blue coloring in its bars.
These clownfish have striking blue stripes that contrast with the white base color of their bodies.
While not a true blue clownfish, the Blue Stripe Clownfish demonstrates the possibility of selectively breeding and amplifying blue coloration in clownfish species and strains.
The existence of these blue clownfish proves that it is possible to produce a true blue clownfish in the future through intense color breeding.
References of Blue Clownfish Over the Internet
Although the existence of true blue clownfish remains a myth, the allure surrounding these captivating creatures has sparked conversations and occasional hoaxes in the fishkeeping community.
One notable event that sparked curiosity was a prank that took place on April 1st, 2015 when a fish-selling portal claimed to have exclusively bred limited stocks of blue clownfish for sale at an enticing price of $149.
This prank quickly garnered attention, resulting in a flurry of discussions among hobbyists eager to acquire these elusive blue beauties.
Since then, there have been instances where the name “blue clownfish” has been used to grab attention through morphed images, videos, fake stories, and various other mediums.
Despite the absence of true blue clownfish in nature, these incidents continue to pique interest and fuel the fascination surrounding these mythical creatures.
The Tap Tap Fish: Abyssrium
“The Tap Tap Fish: Abyssrium” is a popular mobile game that features a variety of virtual underwater creatures, including clownfish.
While the game offers a range of colorful fish, including blue variations, it is important to note that these are fictional representations and not based on real blue clownfish species.
The game provides an enjoyable experience for players to create and customize their own virtual aquatic world.
Tim Dorsey Clownfish Blues
“Clownfish Blues” is a novel written by Tim Dorsey. It is a work of fiction that incorporates elements of comedy, mystery, and adventure.
The book may mention blue clownfish as part of its storyline, but it does not provide factual information about real blue clownfish species.
It is important to differentiate between fictional representations and actual species found in nature.
Ricky the Blue Clown Fish
The “Ricky the Blue Clown Fish” refers to a specific design of the Squishmallow toy that features a clownfish with a blue coloration. Squishmallows are a popular line of plush toys known for their soft and squishy texture.
It is important to note that this representation is purely for aesthetic purposes and does not represent a real blue clownfish species found in the wild.
Hopefully, this article has shed light on the enigmatic blue clownfish and the fascinating world of rare clownfish. Feel free to share your thoughts and comments on the rare and blue clownfish below!
