Banded Kokopu changing colour? Album in description.

[ottdurr]

Hi, I made an account just to post this, but have been lurking the forums for some time.

I have 2 Banded Kokopu, both approximately 8cm, although one is slightly skinnier. The skinnier one is a recent addition and the old one is being a typical kokopu and chasing it. But i noticed something strange about the new one; it changes colour whilst being chased. Here is an album showing the color change and comparing before and after: http://imgur.com/a/FxNoO. Its body turns pale except for a dark band going horizontally the length of its body. Does anyone else know about this? Is it because of stress from being chased, or is it breeding shenanigans?

I guess part two to my question is, what's the best way to sort out the bigger one being a bully? should I let them sort out their hierarchy or should I separate the old fish to give the new one some space to get used to captivity in peace, and also make the older fish less territorial after spending some time in a different territory? They don't so much as fight, just the old one beats up the new one and I'm concerned it's putting unhealthy amounts of stress on the new one.

[kiwiraka]

Hello,

I'm far from experienced on the topic (I've decided to try and involve myself a bit more....)

I recently caught 2 of them about 6 or 7 cm and about a week ago I caught an 8 cm one and the other two were picking on it (In a four foot tank, seems unnecisary to be territorial when so small.....)

I added some extra caves and a couple of Inanga, the kokopu is still a bit timid but he doesn't let the other two chase him now.

Also both my inanga go really creamy and lose their patterns when they get stressed.

Hope I helped.