Ilyodon whitei

Ilyodon whitei is a medium-sized goodeid livebearer from the Río Balsas drainage of Michoacán, Mexico. Unlike the smaller, more delicate goodeids, Ilyodon species are robust, active fish with a bold personality. Males display attractive spotted or reticulated body patterning and are significantly more colourful than females.

This species is more assertive than other goodeids and can be mildly nippy with smaller or slower tank mates, making it better suited to a species tank or a goodeid community with fish of comparable size and activity level.

Ilyodon whitei has been subject to habitat loss in the wild and is maintained through dedicated captive breeding. It is a rewarding species for hobbyists who enjoy observing more dynamic livebearer behaviour.

Water: 20–26 °C, pH 7.0–8.0, GH 8–18; well-oxygenated, moderately hard water. Tank: 100 L minimum; robust plants; some current appreciated. Feeding: Quality flake, spirulina, frozen Daphnia and Artemia; 2–3 meals daily. Breeding: Goodeid; gestation 55–65 days; 10–30 fry per litter; broad feeding essential. Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; best in a single-species or goodeid-only tank.