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I have always thought
that S. jardini and S. leichardti were present in only one
colour each. I now know otherwise from others and from my own experiences.
Both species can also alter their body and fin colours to blend in with their
immediate environment. In a lighter environment (i.e. bright lights, no substrate,
no background picture) the fish will appear a lighter colour. However if
the tank is darker (i.e. dim lights, dark gravel bottom etc.) the fish will
take on a darker appearance. Young Jardini Saratoga can also change their
colour as they grow older. The type of lights (colour spectrum) used can
also influence the colour that you percieve your fish.
I have seen Jardini in a number of colours including: red, gold, copper, almost purple/black, light pinkish and greenish. Although many of these colours are probably environmentally determined. I believe Leichardti Saratoga are less able to change their colours as does the Jardini Saratoga. Leichardti Saratoga are generally an olive colour with maybe a pink/red tinge or even a blue tinge. A guy here in Queensland emailed me about having red Leichardti, but I have yet to see even a picture of such a fish. If anyone knows of others and has a picture I will add them. Here are a few pictures. JARDINI        LEICHARDTI    |