One fish not growing?

**Bwiszniak** · 02-28-2013, 11:36 PM

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I purchased two GT about 6 months ago and one is about 4 times the size of the other. The one is close to 6 inches and the other is still around 3 inches. The little one is eating the same. Just wondering if any one has an idea as to why the size difference.

**MandyK** · 03-01-2013, 02:19 AM

Could be a genetically smaller fish. *shrugs

**genocidex** · 03-01-2013, 02:26 AM

how big is you tank? i think i remember a study that a fish who can think of being alpha will grow faster than the same fish. or was it one fish creating dominance can cause a stunted growth for a while... TBH i dont remember it completely and i defiantly cant provide a source at this point but it could be a theory... i do know GT's can be aggressive

**Aeonflame** · 03-01-2013, 04:44 AM

Agreed. Apart from genetics, dominance is usually the cause. Is the larger fish dominant?

**Bwiszniak** · 03-01-2013, 04:54 AM

They are in a 72 gallon right now. The larger one might be a bit more aggressive but I also have a couple yellow labs that I stuck in the tank but they do not even blink an eye at them. I inherited an 8" Oscar that is now in the tank and even he is very docile. I have never seen any war wounds on any of the fish. 1 Oscar, 2 GT, 2 Yellow Labs and 3 Silver dollars in the tank. I am assuming that is just genetics and not real worried about it. Thanks for the replies!

**Lady Hobbs** · 03-01-2013, 09:13 AM

Their sex is also a factor.

**Sandz** · 03-01-2013, 02:12 PM

One is male, the 2nd is female. I could be wrong but they strongly look like the opposite sex.

**Indian Woods Angels** · 03-01-2013, 07:08 PM

Sandz is correct. Sexual dimorphism. The male can be a 12" fish and the gal a 4" fish with this species. You most likely will notice other features that will support this. The fins are rounder, the over all coloration less intense, head structure may be different.