Depending on mood the 'bars' sometimes show, both male & female. Have noticed with other adult pikes they can show faint juvie patterns (bars or horiz. stripe) when threatened or afraid, sometimes when sleeping...
A couple of other male Cobra pics I've seen have had a dull gold body with red/orange fins, similar to Xingu I males. Will post more pics (now that I learned how) when time permits.... Our male didn't look this good last July...
Taz ~ Our Cobra won 1st in class, not best of show. 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place fish get a plaque/trophy. 'best of show', 'reserve', 'people's choice', and best of division get nicer, more elaborate trophies. Ohio 'cichlid extravaganza' does award cash prizes. As far as I know, sponsers help support differant fish classes for the club putting on the convention, and overall costs. Show fish themselves don't have sponsers (would be nice!)