4 replies to this topic

[AvicLitee]

Sadly this favorite friend crossed under the rainbow bridge after over 12 years. He(?) weighed in at 11.4 oz and just under 11 inches. He had a big tumor on one side which I have no idea if it contributed to his death. Other people on this forum suspected A. melas instead of nebulosa even though his coloring was mottled. I also included a tail shot if it helps with species identification. It was hard to get these shots during life and they may still not be good enough!

I also wonder how old he was already when got him as a small, adorable little thing.

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[mattknepley]

I am sorry for the loss of your friend. We can get attached to our wet pets, can't we?

Based on the large caudal rays that are darker than the fin membrane and the rectangular light area at the base of the caudal fin I would guess melas, too.

[lilyea]

As Matt said, the light colored vertical bar at the base of the caudal strongly suggests that it is a black bullhead.  The anal fin ray count can also be a key indicator to differentiate between black and brown.

[AvicLitee]

Thanks for the kind words. The mottled coloration wouldn't be a good indicator correct? I'm thinking the fish is a male based on other photos I've looked at, but not really sure.

[AvicLitee]

Was anyone able to sex this fish after all?