Flavus -- he's a she!

For years now I thought this was a subdominant male, but two days ago I noticed it was holding!
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I've had females show some color when holding, but not during times when they weren't holding. They are normally drab in color with the males being a nice bright yellow and black. The color of this one always being like this and also the somewhat aggressive behavior made me think it was a male. What a surprise to find it holding!

It was in transition

Yeah, it sure took its time.

This fish is 5 to 6 years old and has never had babies. I didn't get a good look when I fed this morning, but I don't think it's holding anymore.

ive heard of certain cichlid species being able to change sex based on the needs within the group.. maybe this is a species with such an adaptation?

I've also heard that about changing sex, but find it really hard to believe. I have multiple males and females, so there would be no reason that I can think of to make the change. It's an interesting subject though.

I have two male brevis that have been alone together in a 10 gallon tank for many years as well and I keep hoping that one will decide it's time to become a female.

When it comes to breeding the females choose who to spawn with and when.

As much as a male will do his best to persuade a female to choose him,it would seem that in this case you simply have a very selective female on your hands.

Knowing that the female had for some time shown male coloration is an indicator that this female was of the dominant type.

You gotta figure the Males would have,after a while ALMOST given up on trying with her simply because there were easier targets to spawn with.

I've seen that happen too many times with my Labs,and Rusties.

Whichever male it was who became the ''Lucky Guy'' should probably be identified. I

If you wish to have her hold again maybe by simply removing some of the other males she will feel more comfortable spawning with him in the future.