Red discolorations on albino bristlenose

[MilkyJoe]

Hey, My name is Kieran. Quite new here and hoping for some answers for my fish.

I have a 6ft tank set up with quite a few bristle nose and recently I've noticed quite a few of the albino have deep red spots over there bodies and fins, looks like blood under the skin surface.

My PH is about 8, my temp sits at 26C (29F) unfortunate I do not have any ammonia or nitrate/nitrite test kits but will be picking some up next week.

I have also noticed some discoloration in my common bristlenose, unusual white/grey spots over their bodies.

I have included some pictures to help ID

Thanks!

 

[Lupin]

Those don't seem to be anything awfully wrong to me. A lot of plecos change colors depending on the environment and their moods. The normal BN's color change in that pic is normal.

What are the water parameters? Are they eating properly at all? No other unusual symptoms?

 

[MilkyJoe]

Apart from the discoloration they appear to be fine, I've posted all know water parameters in the first post, waiting on more test kits.

They chew on wood all day, absolutely devour chunks of zucchini I put in every couple of days... the amount of poo indicates they are eating more than enough!

I think that they are fine, just the blood red coloration startled me somewhat.

Thanks for your reply!

 

[Lupin]

I don't think your plecos are ill in any way. I meant your ammonia, nitrite and nitrate since you didn't post them yet. The pH is fine.

 

[imisim]

Get them a long, narrow cave. Change 50% water and you will get a bunch of frys soon.

Red colored indicate that they are sexually matured/active and will breed if you give them the right conditions. My longfin albino bristles nose have been busy at work for the last 2 months and I currently ran out of space to house the frys.

 

[MilkyJoe]

Really? That is very good news! I was hoping to breed them but thought I was months off that stage.

Is this a definite indication? My albino that has the most distinct red coloring is only about 1.5" long so I would of thought he/she had a while yet! (not even big enough to sex)

Can anyone give me some advice about breeding? I currently have about 13 bristle nose in a 6ft tank with a BGK and a dozen or so mosquito fish. Im thinking I will have to setup a breeding tank as my knife fish will surely prey on the fry.

Also, how much of a role do the seasons/weather play on breeding patterns or is all governed on my water conditions?

Thanks!