Clownfish Variations: A Guide to Popular Types

Clownfish are among the most beloved marine aquarium fish, thanks to their bold personalities, vibrant colors, and fascinating relationships with anemones. Over the years, selective breeding has produced dozens of unique variations, each with its own distinct look. Below, we’ll explore some of the most popular clownfish types — many of which you’ll find in reef tanks and marine stores today.

1. Black Snowflake

A striking variation with jet-black body and irregular white patterns resembling snowflakes.

2. Da Vinci Extreme

Bright orange base with swirling white patterns that create an almost “painted” effect.

3. Da Vinci

Similar to the Extreme, but with more balanced and cleaner white patterns across the body.

4. Black Gladiator

Deep black coloration with bold, contrasting white stripes.

5. Black Clown

A classic all-black clownfish with minimal white markings.

6. Dalmatian

Named for its spotted white-and-black pattern, resembling the Dalmatian dog breed.

7. Orange Domino

A bright orange clownfish with solid, bold white spots.

8. Black Storm

Unique marbled white and black body, often unpredictable in pattern.

9. Mocha Storm

A softer, brown-toned version of the Black Storm, with swirled markings.

10. Wyoming White

A mostly white clownfish with patches of orange around the fins and face.

11. Frostbite

White-bodied with orange highlights and black speckling, often resembling frost.

12. Bullet Hole

Spotted markings that resemble bullet holes, giving them a dramatic look.

13. Flurry

Pale white with light orange accents and subtle spotting.

14. Snowflake

Classic white variation with jagged, snowflake-like patterns against orange.

15. Black Ice

A mix of white and black striping with orange highlights, giving a cool, icy look.

16. Extreme Misbar

A clownfish with incomplete striping — the bars don’t connect, leaving a “misbarred” look.

17. Naked

Almost completely orange with little to no white striping, very minimalistic.

18. Domino

A black clownfish with bold white dots resembling domino tiles.

Why Collect Different Varieties?

Aquarists love these variations because they bring personality and color diversity to reef tanks. While their care needs remain similar, their looks make each fish feel special.

If you’re considering adding one to your aquarium, always ensure you’re purchasing captive-bred fish from reputable sources — this not only supports sustainability but also helps maintain healthy, disease-free specimens.