2 jack dempsey, big color differens - why?

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Proxor

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Feb 23, 2009
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Norway
Got these 2 JD some days ago, whats up with the big differens in color? like it is 2 different fish but it is not? both are JD as far as i know.
The one with less color is chasing and banging into the colorful allot, so it is hiding most of the time up in the corner, tank is 66 gallon 250 litres, they are around 5.5 inches i would guess.
JD1.jpg JD2.jpg

JD1.jpg

JD2.jpg
 
I don't see any big color difference, except the difference between the stressed coloration of a JD and a dominant. The reason for the chasing and banging is because JD's are aggressive, more so with a conspecific(a member of the same species) then other fish, so it's natural. Also judging by the fins there's more then chasing and banging around going on, there's biting. The fact that one of them is hiding at the surface is not a good sign either. It's indicating there's too much aggression between the two and the less dominant one can't find anywhere to retreat. The fact they're in a 66 gallon means it's probably due to them not having enough room. If something isn't done the dominant JD will most likely kill the other JD either quickly or long and slow through a combination of starvation, stress and injuries. Your best bet is to choose one and try to sell the other or return one of them from where you bought them if possible.
 
^ agreed!
 
ok, fins were like that when i got them, was in a bigger tank with other big fish. it is the one missing some of his upper fin that are the dominant one that are chasing the other one.
Maybe i get rid of one of them but would be great if they could become friends, maybe when they are more settled? or will it not end?
 
I would say that they will stay at it. Are they always fighting with each other or just in a certain area of the tank around a territory? If its territorial then you could try and re arrange decorations.


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I agree both males. they will not both make it in a tank that size and to small to add dithers, keep the dom, re-home the other.
 
Looks like the top one has a lot of bit marks already on its dorsal flank. Best to rehome it since it is very unlikely they will work out long term
 
I would not get any other fish for the tank,. tank that size one JD, move to a 75g and can get him a sweetie.
 
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