Eric I have seen this condition in a number of apistos over the years. Because of the exact distribution of the black discoloration, I agree that it must have a neurologic basis. If I remember correctly, males seem much more prone to this. Bad news is every fish that gets this soon dies. Tom W. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- This is the apistogramma mailing list, apisto@listbox.com. For instructions on how to subscribe or unsubscribe or get help, email apisto-request@listbox.com. Search http://www.digital.com for "Apistogramma Mailing List Archives"!