clown loach plastic morphology (again)

[andyroo]

Martin et al,

seems CL regional morpholgy may be somewhat plastic, according to either tank conditions or dominant animal.

Two Sumatran-type are developing dark areas in ventral fins and nose down-slope seems to me lessening-nose lengthening, though mouth still relatively small. Black stripes now go all the way around the belly as well. Animals seem to be changing: taking on morph. traits of larger, more established in the tank dominant animal (or there are traits to the water/food/flow conditions). Still no good at catching snails in the gravel, though.

Fingers crossed that the oranges will deepen to the Bornean-style deep gold sheen as well.

Related question: on Sumatran style animals i can see redness along lateral line, as though i can see into the body to main arteries around the spine. I'm hoping this is what it is: younger fish in a growth spurt looking a little more transparent then usual. Thoughts? Should i be worried? Vigor and apetite still very good.

A
ps: at some point i'll need to post a few photos.

[Wendie]

I've got 7 of these guys. I introduced one of them to my regular clown and it was a no go situation. The only time they come in contact with each other is at feeding time. It was surprising as I've never run into that before. They always just school up.

They are in a heavily planted tank but still swim in a tight group. Moreso than any of the others that I have. The color is vivid w/b with red fins... no hint of yellow.