Roseline Sharks - Color?

[scottpuck]

I bought three Roseline's a couple weeks ago... They are still little guys. Problem is they are really dull.. The yellow on the tail is more white, and the red is almost non existant except for a little on the snout.

Do these guys color up as they grow and mature, or is what I am seeing a by product of something else?

[rich311k]

What size tank? What are the tankmates? What are your test readings? Is there cover available for the fish in the tank?

I am sure they will color up as they grow. Change water often.

[scottpuck]

75 gallon.. tank mates consist of some cherry barbs, Neons, SAE, 1 pleco, and a couple of glass cats.

It is hooded.

[rich311k]

Give them some plants to hide in. They will color up just give them some time.

[scottpuck]

Forgot to add...

Parameters test fine... and I have a Fluval G6 as my filtration. Its a planted tank.

[mac]

Really the tank sounds fine. IMO and IME with shop work with these fish to the get best color you need school sizes. I have found in groups of 20 or so that they get mighty bright, and very active.

But realistically 5-6 would be better.

As you said they are small, depends on how small. If they are only young and very tinny they won't have fully achieved their true color. Just give them time and they will get better.

mac

[annageckos]

Add a few more and give them some time to grow.

[scottpuck]

Thanks for the info.. Local shop has them right now for 19 each, so Ill pick up a couple more.

[mac]

Man that is so cheap. The cheapest I can get them with my discount is $27 each. Depending. They can go up to $58nz each.

mac

[scottpuck]

Yeah, expensive little buggers.

[wolf_eyes]

Yeah, expensive little buggers.

Yes unfortunately. They're one of my favorite species, but I just can't justify spending $150 on a group of fish when I can barely pay my bills. I'd love to own this species someday though. $19 is a really good price! The stores around here sell them for about $23-$25.


As has been said, adding a few more plus letting them grow up a bit should let them color up. Also try giving them some frozen or live foods once or twice a week and they should really brighten up. Things like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and black worms should do the trick.

[Dandee]

They sell for $20 here.