Who Gives A Fish Forums

I'd greatly appreciate it if these two are the same gender, either both male or both female.

Jewels, indeed. Two males, one's a goner for sure. Female pair might just work, colors might dull a bit, but if a male-female pair, the female's in for a rough ride.

The fish have been in the 4-foot tank for nearly 20 months now. Given that, I highly doubt I'll see a dead fish or one that gets chewed up anytime soon. The colours fading is also unlikely at this point. Sexing them does seem to be a challenge, though.

I think you're lucky with two females. Most people who ask that question just got them, so you're doing something right.

Those fish are great, I've always liked them, but the aggression is a real issue. I've kept a few pairs, bred them too, and to be honest, the constant fighting's put me off. You seem to have it under control, though.