Goodeid Care Guide
Goodeids are a fascinating group of livebearing freshwater fish popular among specialist aquarists in the UK. Known for their unusual breeding method, active behaviour, and conservation importance, they are an excellent alternative to more common livebearers like guppies and mollies.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about Goodeid care, including tank size, water conditions, compatibility, breeding, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about Goodeids
Goodeids are a family of livebearing fish native to Mexico. Popular species in the hobby include the Redtail Splitfin (Xenotoca eiseni), Butterfly Splitfin (Ameca splendens), and Tequila Splitfin (Zoogoneticus tequila).
Many species are endangered in the wild, making captive breeding especially important.
Goodeidae family (various species)
5-12 cm depending on species
Mexico
75L (20gal)
3-5 years
Active, semi-aggressive depending on species
18-26°C
Omnivore (flakes, algae, frozen foods)
7.0-8.0
£5-£25+ per fish depending on species
How Many Goodeids Should You Keep?
Goodeids are social fish and generally do best in groups.
- A minimum group of 5-6 is recommended
- Keep more females than males where possible
- Provide swimming space and visual barriers
Keeping too few can lead to:
- Aggression between males
- Stress and chasing
- Nervous behaviour
Different species vary in temperament, with some being more territorial than others.
Ideal Tank Conditions for Goodeids
Providing the right environment helps Goodeids thrive and display natural behaviour.
- Tank Setup: Spacious aquarium with open swimming space
- Substrate: Sand or gravel substrate
- Plants & Decor: Hardy plants, rocks, driftwood, and hiding spaces
- Water Conditions: Slightly alkaline, well-oxygenated water preferred
- Filtration & Flow: Moderate filtration with good oxygenation
- Lighting: Moderate lighting
Many species appreciate slightly cooler water than typical tropical fish.
Compatibility with Other Fish
Goodeids can work well in carefully selected community tanks.
- Good Tankmates: danios, rainbowfish, hillstream loaches, and similarly active species
- Avoid: slow-moving fish, long-finned species, and delicate shrimp
Some species may nip fins or show territorial behaviour.
Are Goodeids Easy to Care For?
Goodeids are generally easy to moderately easy to care for and suitable for aquarists with some experience.
They require:
- Clean, oxygen-rich water
- A varied diet
- Suitable tankmates
- Regular maintenance
They are hardy but can be sensitive to poor water quality.
Goodeid Price in the UK
In the UK, Goodeids typically cost between £5-£25+ per fish depending on species rarity.
Prices vary depending on:
- Species and conservation status
- Size and quality
- Availability
- Breeder vs shop source
Rare species may command higher prices.
Where to Buy Goodeids in the UK
Goodeids are usually available from specialist breeders and hobbyists rather than standard aquarium shops.
Sourcing fish locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Help preserve rare bloodlines
- Offer healthier, established fish
TankMate UK helps connect fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely - without shipping.
Can You Sell Goodeids?
Yes - many Goodeid species are actively bred and exchanged between hobbyists.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises stress for the fish
- Helps preserve healthy breeding populations
- Connects you with specialist keepers
TankMate UK allows you to list fish quickly and find local buyers.
Breeding Goodeids
Goodeids are livebearers but breed differently from guppies or mollies.
Key Tips
- Females give birth to relatively large, well-developed fry
- Gestation typically lasts 6-8 weeks
- Fry are often easier to raise than many livebearers
- Provide hiding spaces and good-quality food
Unlike most livebearers, Goodeid fry are connected through trophotaeniae during development.
Common Problems with Goodeids
Fin-nipping or aggression, often caused by:
- Too many males
- Small group sizes
- Inadequate space
Poor health or inactivity, linked to:
- Warm water temperatures
- Poor oxygenation
- Poor diet
Loss of rare bloodlines, caused by:
- Inbreeding
- Mixing species unintentionally
Why Goodeids Are So Popular
- Unique and unusual livebearers
- Interesting breeding behaviour
- Many species are conservation-important
- Hardy and active fish
- Excellent for specialist aquarists
When kept correctly, Goodeids are fascinating fish with behaviour and history unlike most common aquarium species.
Frequently Asked Questions
They are a family of livebearing fish native to Mexico.
Some species can be semi-aggressive or fin-nippy.
Yes, many species breed readily in aquariums.
At least 75 litres, with larger tanks preferred for groups.
Looking to Buy or Sell Goodeids Locally?
TankMate UK connects fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely within their local area.
Whether you're keeping rare livebearers or helping preserve breeding lines, you can:
- Browse fish available near you
- List your own fish in minutes
- Avoid the risks of shipping
Explore local listings with TankMate UK and find the right fish for your aquarium.