Green Terror Coloration/Adult Genetics

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Manu8__too

Manu8__too

Aimara
MFK Member
Jun 18, 2013
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Hoping for some experienced insight on the color development/genetics of my Green Terror (Gold Saum) Cichlid. Below, are two pictures of the same GT I purchased back in late August. In the first picture @ 2", the genetic potential of the fish appears to be very promising. However, now @ 5", he appears to be less colorful/impressive, especially with the absence of a nice Orange caudal band. He lives with one other female GT (whom he's spawned with) in a 90G tank. His water, diet and environment are all top rate. The pair shares their space with some dithers and a couple of Plecos. Any insight as to why he is less colorful? Are poor genetics beginning to play a role in his adult development? Experienced GT insight would be greatly appreciated.
 
Not allowing me to upload the pics. Will try later.
 
try removing the female and keeping them separate for a while, or introduce a second female. I removed my male from a 50 gallon with two females who he would breed with and at first his colors got dull but after about 3 weeks his colors were brighter than ever. Since then i gave the two females away and it even seems like hes growing faster now. I would recommend trying this out.
 
I would say it is just a lower quality GT. The color of a good quality GT does not regress with age, only to intensify. A good quality GT should have thick orange edge, and bulky head, which started to show at 3 to 4" size. Many Florida pond raised GTs have low quality and sell cheap.
 
tiger15 said:
I would say it is just a lower quality GT. The color of a good quality GT does not regress with age, only to intensify. A good quality GT should have thick orange edge, and bulky head, which started to show at 3 to 4" size. Many Florida pond raised GTs have low quality and sell cheap.
Click to expand...

I'm possibly thinking the same thing. However, oddly enough, he showed a lot of potential when smaller (see link). Also, I've seen GT's hit huge development/coloration improvements around 6". Regardless, I'll probably grow him out to 7-8" and see where he's at. He's still a sub-adult at this point.
http://www.cichlids.com/uploads/tx_usercichlids/user_pics/13251/image__f757c75c4a.jpg
 
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