Species profile
Ameca Splendens
Ameca splendens
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
200 L minimum aquarium
8–12 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A robust but conservation-significant goodeid. It can be pushier and more prone to fin-nipping than typical peaceful community livebearers, so slow long-finned tankmates are a poor choice.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
20–26 °C
pH
7–8.5
GH
10–25 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 6
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Fry
Bioload factor
1.5
Social and active with a clear hierarchy. Fin-nipping and chasing can occur, especially in cramped groups; space and group size are important.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
Yes / caution
Plant safe
Caution
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
5–8 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
200 L
Minimum footprint
100 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Ameca splendens
Alternative names
Butterfly Goodeid, Butterfly Splitfin
Native range
Mexico, Rio Ameca basin in Jalisco.
Natural habitat
Clear, well-oxygenated river habitat. Use hard alkaline water, strong biological filtration, good oxygenation, open swimming room and rock/plant structure.
Diet & feeding
Omnivore with a substantial herbivorous/grazing component. Feed algae/vegetable-rich foods as the base with quality prepared and small invertebrate foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are smaller and develop a bold black-and-yellow tail pattern; females are larger, deeper-bodied and lack the male colour pattern.
Breeding
Livebearing goodeid with maternal nutrient transfer to developing young. Fry are born relatively large. Maintain a social group and provide refuge for young.