RTM Sexing Help

[k0330887]

HI All

I have 4 young RTMs. The largest is about 4", smallest 2.5". I am trying to work out what sex they all are. I have no pics of them at the mo, will try to get some up later on for confirmation.

I have noticed that the largest is quite colourful and has some horizontal patterning present. This one is the 4" and grew the quickest, so always thought it was a male.

There are another 2, more placid in colour about 3", they too have horizontal patterning, but not as obvious, a more sleek coat with a slight blue tint. These two are very aggressive towards one another, nipped fins and chasing into corners. I didnt think two females would harass each other as much as these two do.

Without pics I understand very difficult to determine, but could it be what I thought was the male is actually a female? and the females male?

Any other characteristics I can look for?

Many thanks

 

[miles44]

Pictures.
Look closely at the fins. Males will have spotting in the soft portions of the unpaired fins whereas females do not.
The spotting on the face also differs between sexes. Males have a number of fine spots. Females have the normal blotches.
I was aiming to take a pic of the female here but you can see the male in the background. They where about 3.5-4" at the time. Notice the male's fine spots on the face compared to the female's clean face.

I also noticed that out of the two the female has the richer red hues.

Edit: See pic of pair here:
http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=267392

 

[k0330887]

Thanks Miles.

I see what you mean the male in the photo seems to have more 'freckles' then the female. I'll check it out when I get home. Can't find the camera, but will definitely update this thread with pics when I do. Please forgive my lack of knowledge, is the unpaired fin otherwise known as the anal fin? Just below the caudal fin? I will look out for this as well.