Approx Max Length : 6cm

Tequila Splitfin - Zoogoneticus tequila Fish Profile & Care Guide

The Tequila Splitfin (Zoogoneticus tequila) is a goodeid fish native to Mexico. Its name, tequila, is inspired by the nearby Tequila Volcano, located close to its type locality. The species, unfortunately, is listed as endangered by the IUCN due to its determinate range and ongoing threats to its habitat. This status underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts to ensure its survival.

The Tequila Splitfin is a highly sociable species that thrives in groups. In their natural habitat, they are frequently observed in small shoals, which provide benefits such as enhanced foraging efficiency and protection from predators. It's our responsibility as caretakers to maintain at least six individuals in captivity, as this promotes natural behaviours and reduces stress. By doing so, we can help replicate their wild interactions and contribute to their well-being.

When selecting tankmates for Tequila Splitfins, it's essential to consider their peaceful nature and specific environmental needs. They coexist well with other non-aggressive species that share similar water parameter requirements. However, many aquarists prefer keeping them in a species-only setup due to their endangered status and to prevent potential hybridization. This approach ensures optimal breeding conditions and minimizes stress from interspecies interactions.

Creating an ideal aquarium environment for Tequila Splitfins involves more than just providing a tank. It's about replicating their natural habitat. A tank size of at least 40 litres (approximately 10 gallons) is suitable for a small group, providing ample space for swimming and social interactions. Incorporating hiding spots using caves, rocks, and driftwood offers security and mimics their native surroundings. A substrate of fine sand, complemented by live or artificial plants, enhances the habitat's authenticity. By doing this, we're not just creating a home for these fish, but we're also playing a crucial role in their conservation.

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Sexual Dimorphism

Distinguishing male and female Tequila Splitfins is straightforward. Males are smaller in size and can be identified by cream-coloured terminal bands on their anal and dorsal fins. Their caudal fins feature a crescent-shaped band in shades of red-orange, orange, or yellow, with the remaining area being unpigmented and transparent. While some large adult females may exhibit similar caudal fin colours, their fins are typically transparent. Both sexes have olive-toned, mottled bodies, with males appearing darker overall. As adults age, the mottling on their caudal peduncle often fades. Juveniles, in contrast, display lighter colouring with more pronounced mottling.

Quick Facts

Scientific Name	Zoogoneticus tequila
Year Described	1998
Other Names	Tequila fish
Kingdom	Animalia
Classification	Actinopterygii
Order	Cyprinodontiformes
Family	Goodeidae
Genus	Zoogoneticus
Origins	Mexico
Approx Max Size	6 cm
Temperament	Peaceful
Aquarium Level	Middle - Top
Difficulty	Beginner - Intermediate
Shoaling	Yes
Best kept as	Groups 6+
Diet & Feeding	Omnivore
Reproduction	Livebearer
Average Lifespan	Up to 5 Years

Water Parameters

Water Type	Freshwater
pH	7.0 - 8.0
GH	8 - 15
TDS	143 - 357

Ideal Temperature Range
℉	68 - 75
℃	20 - 24

Natural Habitat

The Tequila Splitfin is native to the Ameca River Basin in west-central Mexico. Its current natural range is confined to a single spring pool in Teuchitlán, measuring just 4 metres in diameter. In the early 2000s, this pool supported fewer than 50 adult individuals. Before the discovery of this population in 2000-2001, the species was believed to inhabit rivers. However, extensive searches of its original habitat yielded no findings, leading to its classification as extinct in the wild. The small spring pool where the remaining population resides features a substrate of mud and silt, interspersed with rocks, sand, and sparse vegetation. Tequila Splitfins are most commonly found in the shallower, warmer areas of the pool.

Breeding

The Tequila Splitfin, a viviparous fish species endemic to Mexico, has a unique reproductive process. Females possess a single median ovary where embryos develop internally, leading to the birth of free-swimming fry. Gestation lasts approximately 6 to 8 weeks, with females producing between 10 to 29 offspring per brood. While reproduction predominantly occurs during the summer months, instances of winter breeding have been documented. Sexual maturity is achieved relatively quickly, around 6 to 10 weeks of age. There is no parental care post-birth, and the fry is independent from birth.

Diet & Feeding

The Tequila Splitfin primarily feeds on various types of zooplankton and insect larvae, with a particular preference for chironomid larvae. The species' conical teeth suggest a predatory inclination towards small invertebrates. Notably, instances of cannibalism have been observed, where adults consume immature young.

In an aquarium setting, Tequila Splitfins are opportunistic feeders that adapt well to various diets. They thrive on a mix of high-quality dry foods such as flakes and pellets, supplemented with live or frozen options like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Their natural inclination towards small invertebrates makes these protein-rich foods especially beneficial for their health. They also readily consume plant-based foods, such as blanched vegetables (e.g., spinach or zucchini) and algae-based wafers, which mimic their natural foraging behaviour.