My RTC colour is pale

[Harly1000]

Have you tested your water?

No

If I did not test my water...

1. ...I recognize that I will likely be asked to do a test, and that water tests are critical for solving freshwater health problems.

Do you do water changes?

Yes

What percentage of water do you change?

71-80%

How frequently do you change your water?

Every month

If I do not change my water...

1. ...I recognize that I will likely be recommended to do a water change, and water changes are critical for preventing future freshwater health problems.

I noticed my RTC colour is pale for the past two weeks. I changed the water lask week and there wasn't much change.

 

[SilverArowanaBoi]

I don't know if it's the picture, but your water looks cloudy. Maybe do another water change. Has your RTC been eating well? Showing signs of sickness like less activity than normal, eating less, physical changes other than the color change you mentioned, etc?

 

[tlindsey]

I noticed my RTC colour is pale for the past two weeks. I changed the water lask week and there wasn't much change.

View attachment 1530739

How often do you perform water changes weekly, biweekly, or monthly? How long has the aquarium been up and running?
Do you test your water parameters with a aquarium test kit?
If you have a test kit please post parameters so we can further assist you.

 

[Caveden]

I don't know if it's the picture, but your water looks cloudy. Maybe do another water change. Has your RTC been eating well? Showing signs of sickness like less activity than normal, eating less, physical changes other than the color change you mentioned, etc?

^^ agree with this. If it is eating it is probably fine. However do check your water quality, it doesn’t seem to be cycled and going through bacterial bloom. Does not look like an established tank.

 

[Trouser Cough]

What are you using for a filter? If that thing toward the L/Rear is a sponge and that's it, you're definitely due for something more if you hope to keep a foot long RTC for much longer. One of the downsides of a fish only tank w/ no decoration or substrate is that available surface area for beneficial bacteria can become an issue, particularly if you're keeping what will be a 3-4' carnivore.

 

[esoxlucius]

The fish looks healthy enough and your "cloudy" water could just be because the picture is a full length tank shot....or because, as mentioned, your small filter is struggling with the bioload. Keep a check on your parameters.

I'll also say that a 71-80% water change just once per month seems a little wimpy.

As far as the washed out colour goes. That could just be down to lack of substrate/tank decor. The surroundings of a fish can play a big part in whether it looks vibrant or washed out.

You do have upgrade plans in the pipeline don't you?