Species profile
Balsas Splitfin
Ilyodon whitei
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
150 L minimum aquarium
8–11 cm adult size
Mid bottom
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Avoid prolonged hot conditions above roughly 26°C. Strong oxygenation, regular large water changes and a cooler seasonal period better match its riverine biology.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
18–25 °C
pH
7–8.2
GH
8–25 dGH
KH
5–18 dKH
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 6
Tank zone
Mid bottom
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Fry
Bioload factor
1
Robust social goodeid with a strong feeding response and hierarchy. Keep a substantial group with current, oxygenation and sturdy tankmates.
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
150 L
Minimum footprint
100 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Ilyodon whitei
Alternative names
Balsas Splitfin, White's Splitfin
Native range
Balsas River basin, Pacific slope of central Mexico.
Natural habitat
Streams and rivers with moderate to swift current, rocks and algae-coated surfaces; water is well oxygenated and seasonally variable.
Diet & feeding
Aufwuchs, algae, detritus and small invertebrates; use plant-rich prepared foods with regular frozen/live invertebrates.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males possess the characteristic goodeid modified anal fin; females are larger and broader-bodied.
Breeding
Matrotrophic goodeid livebearer. Females give birth to large, well-developed young after internal gestation.