When do RTCs start shedding?

[Phractocephalus Hemioliop]

I have just read another thread about RTCs shedding their slime coat which really amazes me because throughout my research about these beautiful creatures, i have never read that. I have an RTC about 17 cm long in a 70 gallon tank [yes he will be moved to a gigantic pond very very soon] and i have never seen him shed his slime coat. how those it look like? How old do they be to start shedding? How often and do EVERY RTC shed??

 

[D7620]

hmmm never heard about this either..
will be looking forward to this.

 

[justonemoretank]

It happens periodically with all RTCs as they grow. However, constant shedding can be a sign of water quality problems. Just keep an eye on your params. and you should be okay. At least, if he does shed, you'll know it's part of the normal process! You'll definitely know when it happens... little sheets of thin, translucent material begin to flake off. During this time, they won't eat, primarily due to the fact that they "taste" through their skin. So, don't worry about feeding. Do a waterchange as soon as you don't see it happening anymore. Overall, it doesn't happen very often -- mine's a little over two feet now, and he's done it maybe four or five times. It can be alarming, though, if you don't know what's going on.