Xiphophorus montezumae

Xiphophorus montezumae Jordan & Snyder, 1899

Affiliation: northern swordtail

IUCN status: data deficient

Distribution: Río Pánuco drainage, San Luis Potosí, Mexico

Known locations (existing/former): several

Type locality: Río Verde near Rascón, San Luis Potosí, Mexico

Habitat description: Generally found in major rivers or smaller streams with strong currents over substrates composed of sand, silt, gravel, or rocks; very rarely in areas with mud or clay. Vegetation is only sparse or absent. These conditions provide optimal oxygenation and a dynamic environment, facilitating the species’ active lifestyle.

Biotope reports:

• none yet

Description: Medium sized, slender-bodied swordtail, with males having the longest sword from all Xiphophorus species (same length or longer than the body). Females exhibit a light brown coloration with a distinct dark lateral stripe running from the snout to the caudal peduncle. Males have blue shine on their body, some populations also have orange, brown or green hues. Faint vertical stripes can be present, as well as deep black macromelanophores ranging from small dots to large blotches. Black pattern is also present in males’ dorsal and sometimes caudal fin.

Variability: Natural populations exhibit variability in colouration and patterning, with males displaying a range of greenish hues and patterns, including spots, blotches, or vertical lines. The differentiation of known populations based on their appearance requires more analysis to be reliable (if possible at all).

XWG status: not yet actively managed

Represented in aquaria: One of the most popular species of “wild” Xiphophorus, sometimes offered in a trade.

Known issues: Needs clean water, but not presenting any special challenges when kept properly.

Known collections or populations:

• El Quince, Río Ojo Frío / Río Frío (Río Gallinas), San Luis Potosí, Mexico
• Tamasopo, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
• Rascón, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
• Capuchinas, San Luis Potosí, Mexico (also incorrectly as “Capuchin”)
• Ojo Caliente, San Luis Potosí, Mexico

(if you have more information, please contact us at info@xipho.org – thanks!)