I think it will darken eventually, the ends of the dorsal and anal fins are normal in color. If the bars remain light in color, it may be mutation and you have a unique fish in your hands.
Hypomelanism is definitely possible with the species, but quite rare.
If it keeps this coloration, it is a rare mutation. But it's also possible that its current appearance is temporary for various reasons - you won't know if it's hypomelanistic for sure unless it stays like this for many months.
That’s sounds all great. Right now it’s in my QT, started hyperventilating after drop acclimating. All parameters check out, just a small amount of nitrate. Hoping he makes it thru the night. It’s about 3 inches so pretty grown.
Why are you dripping for a QT - it’s unecessary stress. Adjust the salinity of the tank to that of the incoming bag water. Just requires a 20 min bag float for temp then let it out. Far easier on the fish. You can adjust the salinity up over a week or two.
Sorry didn’t get back. Had a big break out of something in my bigger tank. This little guy didn’t make it. Parameters all checked out. He survived for about 2 weeks and just a couple days ago I found him on his side and didn’t make it. He was doing so much better eating normal. No clue what happened.