Butterfly Goodeid (Ameca splendens) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 30 gallons and 68-80°F. A silvery, black-spotted livebearer whose males have a yellow-edged tail. It is a gentle fish that likes hard, alkaline water, and it may nibble the fins of slow, long-finned tankmates.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Ameca splendens |
|---|---|
| Family | Goodeidae |
| Origin | Rio Ameca basin, western Mexico |
| Adult size | 3-4 in |
| Minimum tank | 30 gallons |
| Temperature | 68-80°F |
| pH | 7.0-8.2 |
| Temperament | Peaceful but fins may be nipped; males chase |
| Social behavior | Groups, more females than males |
| Swim level | Mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: flakes, small pellets, frozen foods, algae and vegetable matter |
| Typical lifespan | 3-5 years |
Quick tips
- Use hard water and keep the tank cooler than a typical tropical setup.
- Keep a group with more females than males.
- Add vegetable foods or algae to the diet.
San Diego water
Naturally suited to San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water once it is dechlorinated (the city uses chloramine, so use a conditioner that handles it). Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi