Shy Red devil

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo

Hipporhyn

Exodon
MFK Member
May 31, 2018
46
32
26
60
Whitby, Ontario Canada
My red devil (Bruce) is somewhat shy. I am wondering if it’s because he sees himself reflected in black background. Since the (reflection) fish never goes away, perhaps he sees it as a threat, and is always wary. Do you think I should change that background?
Bruce hides more than I would like. I had one, many years ago, that was relentless, constantly at the side of the tank trying to get my attention. Bruce will attemp to chase me off when I first come near the tank but then retreats to the hole he has dug. Kinda boring. I bought him because I thought he would be highly energetic and entertaining.
-He is 10 years old
-I have had him almost 4 weeks
-hood health
-good colour
-digs big holes
-eats well (although not as aggressive as expected)
His environment:
-120 gallon tank. (5’ long with black background)
-Excellent water conditions
-Near front door...moderate traffic
-6 giant danios
-1 red tailed shark
-1 small bushy nose pleco
 
10 years old?

How big is the Red Devil?

With cichlids all have different personalities and maybe this guy isn't very confident or aggressive.
 
So I removed the black background and replaced it with an underwater scene. Bruce has been much more active since I did that. I also got a mirror which I use a couple of times a day to let him see his reflection. Bruce gets very bold and aggressive when he sees it. After he takes a few runs at it I take it away to give him the impression he has scared the intruder away. Bruce has been much more active today.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Backfromthedead
I think i might have asked you before but what is bruce getting to eat? If youre not already, try some high quality, high energy live or frozen foods. Bloodworms, earthworms, crickets, live shrimp if you can find some cheap. If he doesnt go crazy for that then he really is the most tranquil RD ive ever seen.

You could try a small school of dithers as well. Some barbs or danios maybe. Your tank should be big enough for him to chase them without hurting himself.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Deadliestviper7
MonsterFishKeepers.com