Ilyodon xantusi 4 - (Ilyodon xantusi) — 4-6cm

Overview

Xantus Goodeid (Ilyodon xantusi) is a hardy, attractive Mexican splitfin that thrives in clean, mineral-rich water and makes a rewarding livebearing community fish. Endemic to western Mexico, especially freshwater systems in the Pacific slope drainages of Jalisco and Colima, this species is prized for its unique biology, peaceful nature, and fascinating breeding behavior. Now available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this unusual livebearer is ideal for the specialist community aquarium keeper.

Appearance

The Xantus Goodeid typically reaches around 8 cm in total length, making it a small to medium-sized goodeid. The body is robust and elongated, with a pale silver or olive base color marked with subtle spotting or barring along the flanks. The fins show a distinctive split appearance in males, a characteristic feature of the goodeid family. Females are generally larger and more robust. Healthy specimens have bright, clear eyes and smooth, undamaged scales.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Ilyodon xantusi is endemic to western Mexico, especially freshwater systems in the Pacific slope drainages of Jalisco and Colima. These waters are typically clear, cool to moderately warm, and hard, with rocky or gravelly substrates and moderate flow. The surrounding landscape is mountainous or hilly, and the fish spend much of their time among rocks and vegetation, feeding on small invertebrates, algae, and organic detritus.

Aquarium Setup

A well-filtered aquarium of at least 75 litres is recommended for a small group of Xantus Goodeids. Use a fine gravel or smooth stone substrate and incorporate smooth rocks, driftwood, and robust live plants to provide visual interest and hiding places. Ensure good filtration and moderate water movement to maintain high oxygen levels. A secure lid is advisable. Maintain stable, cool to moderately warm water with hard, alkaline pH.

Feeding

The Xantus Goodeid is an omnivore and thrives on a varied diet. Offer quality flake or small pellet foods as a staple, supplemented with frozen and live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms, and insect larvae, plus some vegetable matter and algae-based foods. Feed twice daily in small amounts to maintain excellent water quality.

Behaviour

This goodeid is peaceful, active, and social, constantly on the move and best kept in a small group. Males can be persistent toward females, so a ratio of one male to multiple females is recommended. When kept in proper numbers, the Xantus Goodeid is confident and displays natural behavior. They occupy all levels of the aquarium and are most active during the day.

Tank Mates

The Xantus Goodeid is suitable for a community aquarium with other peaceful, cool-water fish. Good tankmates include peaceful fish of similar size that prefer similar cooler, hard, alkaline water, non-aggressive Central American or Mexican species with similar water needs, and snails. Avoid large predatory fish, fin-nipping species, highly aggressive cichlids, and very small fry or nano fish that may be outcompeted or eaten.

Breeding

Breeding the Xantus Goodeid is achievable with careful preparation. This is a livebearing goodeid, with females giving birth to relatively few, larger young. Provide clean, stable water and a well-fed group with more females than males. Fry are usually free-swimming and can be raised on small live foods.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a leading UK aquatics specialist offering unusual and fascinating livebearers like the Xantus Goodeid direct to your door. Every fish is quarantined, inspected, and dispatched with expert care to ensure it arrives in peak condition. With decades of experience, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer support, we make it easy to add unique, specialist species to your collection. Order online today and enjoy fast, reliable delivery across the UK.