Xiphophorus nezahualcoyotl

Xiphophorus nezahualcoyotl Rauchenberger, Kallman & Morizot, 1990

Affiliation: northern swordtail

IUCN status: data deficient

Distribution: upper parts of Río Pánuco drainage in the north, e.g. Río Tamesí, Río El Salto in Tamaulipas and San Luis Potosí, Mexico

Known locations (existing/former): several

Type locality: Arroyo Gallitos, 0,5 km west of Gallitos, an internal drainage, Tamaulipas, Mexico

(6.4.1985, K. D. Kallman, D. C. Morizot & M. Ryan)

Habitat description: Inhabits fast-flowing streams and creeks, typically up to 1200 meters elevation. The habitat features clear or slightly murky water with rocky substrates, but also mud and leaf deposits. It is also found near waterfalls, and in areas with dense aquatic vegetation.

Biotope reports:

• none yet

Description: Males of X. nezahualcoyotl are characterized by their deep bodies and moderately developed swords. They display a pale brown base color overlaid with sky blue, featuring a zigzag lateral line and black spots. The dorsal fin has a black edge, and the sword is yellow with black edging, typically turned upwards. Females lack the sword and have a more subdued coloration with similar zigzag patterns

Variability: Slightly variable species, with males showing different patterns of black dots.

XWG status: not yet actively managed

Represented in aquaria: Quite rare.

Known issues: –

Known collections or populations:

• Río El Salto, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
• Río Tamesí, Ocampo, Tamaulipas, Mexico

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