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Like
most
goodeids,
these are an endangered species, with few populations
being kept in the hobby. These were collected
around 2003, and were
recently donated to Select Aquatics by a local
university.
This population is one of the most attractive. The males
possess a tail and
caudal peduncle that are a brilliant yellow with an overall
blue sheen and
spangling on their bodies. They reproduce easily but females
should be kept
separate in a heavily planted 5 or 10 gallon tank to
drop their fry, as they
can be fry-eaters. A mix of both vegetable and
higher protein foods are
appreciated, and they should be kept below 76-77 degrees for
them to do
their best.
This fish
is possibly the most
temperature tolerant carried at this site.
Tested for cold tolerance, these did very well in
an unheated greenhouse
here in Colorado, where temperatures got to as
low as 50 degrees in the
wintertime without ill effect to the fish. As
well, this population has
done well kept as high as 78 - 80 degrees.
For those with ponds looking to an alternative to
goldfish or koi, and
even to the larger swordtails such as the
X. mayae or
X. helleri, this
population of X. eiseni would be a hardy,
prolific, colorful choice.
They will produce from 5-20
fry, depending on their age
and size, after a 60
day gestation period. Young are large enough to feed
immediately on baby brine
shrimp and will grow quickly with frequent feedings, aeration
and routine water
changes. For more information on keeping this species, click
HERE.
This fish
had its name changed in 2016. It was formerly known as
Xenotoca eiseni, Rio Tamazula.
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