5 replies to this topic

[JackieFisher]

Hi Guys,

I have been trying to breed fatheads just to observe them, to no avail. I used to assume two fish are females, but I'm no longer sure. The thing is they look similar unless they become in heat. Could you help me identify them?

 

Attached Files

•  post-21926-0-82082100-1557870023.jpg   94.29KB   4 downloads
•  post-21926-0-96064300-1557870038.jpg   102.99KB   4 downloads
•  post-21926-0-11364900-1557870048.jpg   105.58KB   4 downloads
•  post-21926-0-70914200-1557870054.jpg   89.14KB   4 downloads
•  post-21926-0-08131300-1557870063.jpg   94.11KB   4 downloads

[JackieFisher]

I am aware that the males will have black head and color bands, but that is only during breeding, for males that are breeding. Underdevelped males are similair to females

[JackieFisher]

Please help

[JackieFisher]

It is been months little progress

[JackieFisher]

News
Right now at least one male has developed breeding tubercles and dark pattern, but it is unstable and goes away occasionally.
I am not sure those females are actually males instead.
They are kind also territorial . One female would fight for caves.
every fish including obvious males have a little ovipositor like protrusion don under.
Not sure if i should persist.

[Fleendar the Magnificent]

Wish I could help you with your conundrum. Unfortunately, they do not get colorful like most darters do. IMHO, the tubercles are a good giveaway as to the males. I have 6 spotfin shiners in my tank and would like to know which are which, but unless they develop tubercles, I'll probably never know.