Sex and ID

[cmj15]

i bought this as a clown pleco L-103 and was wondering if this was correct and what sex it is so I might go and buy it a mate, but one thing not seen in the photo is that is has almost barbells on the sides of its face

 

[HungDang]

even fish experts still not sure how to sex these thing!

 

[cmj15]

ok thanks!

 

[aclockworkorange]

even fish experts still not sure how to sex these thing!

I disagree. It's actually not difficult at all once they are mature. Males are smaller, females are a bit larger and "fatter" looking. Males develop odontodes (spines, basically) along the dorsum, and when males are in breeding condition they develop interopercular (cheek) odontodes.

 

[Plec123]

I disagree. It's actually not difficult at all once they are mature. Males are smaller, females are a bit larger and "fatter" looking. Males develop odontodes (spines, basically) along the dorsum, and when males are in breeding condition they develop interopercular (cheek) odontodes.

bingo. this one is definitely a male.. nice odontodes on the tail and sides. i have a male as well.

 

[aclockworkorange]

Agreed, I would say male.

 

[cmj15]

thank you for the information and techniques for sexing these cute little buggers, now i just need to get him a gal pal