unsure of C.Irrubesco sexing

[Jay.B.]

as the thread title suggests, I am a little stuck, but think she could be a girl...
would like know for definite as would like to get a partner at some point.

[Corvus]

I suggest a young male because of coloration and the bulk shape.
Could be difficult to introduce a female that is accepted.

[Jay.B.]

cheers for that
The pattern on top was confusing me as that was more female like, most of the male pics I had seen appeared darker and the bands were smoother, and hardly any were belly shots, hence the request for other opinions.

thank you

[Jay.B.]

Definitely a boy, I have been put right in another thread by a much more experienced pufferholic

[Corvus]

I'm sure he'll get the standard male irrubesco color when growing up.
He must be still pretty small.

When I got my couple he was not unlike yours, but the differences to the female (coloration, shape, size) grew with years. Now they look like totally different species of fish.

They can also slightly change their color depending on the mood. The belly stripe however is a tell tale sign and your male should have it.

[Jay.B.]

he is quite small, I reckon just under an inch, there were some nearly full grown Irrubesco which were clearly identifiable, but where's the satisfaction in buying a ready prepared fish? I didn't realise they changed quite so much as they grew
a couple more pics here... http://www.thepufferforum.com/forum/vie ... 11&t=11862