Our Guide To Keeping Xantus Splitfin Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Ilyodon xantusi
   • Common name: Xantus Splitfin
   • Family: Goodeidae
   • Origin: Rivers and streams on the Pacific slope of central Mexico (mainly in Colima and Jalisco)
   • Adult length: 6 to 9 cm
   • Lifespan: 3 to 5 years
   • Diet: Omnivore (with strong herbivorous tendencies)
   • Care Level: Moderate
   • Temperament: Generally peaceful, but slightly territorial during breeding

2. Tank Setup:

   • Minimum tank size should be 80L for a group of Xantus Splitfins.
   • Provide a naturalistic setup with rocks, wood, and hardy plants like Java Fern, Vallisneria, and Anubias.
   • Use fine gravel or sand substrate and include hiding spots to help reduce territorial behavior.

3. Water Parameters:

   • They thrive in hard, alkaline water with a pH between 7.0 and 8.2.
   • Maintain a temperature range of 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F).
   • Good oxygenation and water movement are important for their well-being.

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Use a high-quality filter to maintain clean water conditions and moderate to strong flow.
   • Replicating river-like conditions with movement will support their natural activity levels.

5. Diet:

   • Feed a variety of foods including algae-based flakes or pellets, spirulina wafers, and blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
   • Occasionally offer live or frozen foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp to meet protein needs.
   • A plant-heavy diet is essential to maintain digestive health.

6. Tank mates:

   • Suitable companions include other goodeids, swordtails, platies, and similar robust fish.
   • Avoid delicate species or fin-nippers to prevent stress and injury.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Xantus Splitfins are active and social, doing best in groups with more females than males.
   • Mild territorial behavior may occur among males, especially during breeding periods.
   • Best housed in species-only or well-planned community tanks with plenty of space.