Bulldog Goodeid

Bulldog Goodeid (Alloophorus robustus) Also known as Chegua

Collection Point: Lago Zacapu

A large, predatory livebearing fish from the highland lakes and slow-moving waters of central Mexico. Named for its robust build and powerful jaws (from the Latin robustus), this impressive goodeid was historically widespread but has declined sharply due to habitat degradation and introduced species. It is now considered Vulnerable overall, with some populations critically endangered, making it a rare and conservation-priority species in the hobby.

Key Features

• Maximum Size: Up to 14.3 cm / ~5.6 inches SL (males); females slightly larger and fuller-bodied.
• Appearance: Stout, powerful body with a large mouth and strong conic teeth suited to a predatory lifestyle. Coloration is generally uniform pale brown to gray-brown, with juveniles showing bolder blotches. Breeding males may display a subterminal black band and yellow terminal band in the median fins. Males have a larger dorsal fin and the characteristic goodeid splitfin (notch in the anal fin).
• Fin Details: Males develop a noticeably larger dorsal fin and the split anal fin typical of goodeids.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: Minimum 250 liters / ~65 gallons (larger preferred) with low to moderate flow.
• Water Parameters: Cool to subtropical; 50–77°F (10–25°C), pH 7.0–8.5, moderate hardness. High oxygen levels (≥8 mg/L) are essential. Provide dense vegetation in corners, driftwood, rocks, and caves for cover and ambush spots. Sandy or fine substrate with leaf litter is ideal.
• Diet: Carnivorous predator — thrives on live or frozen foods such as small fish, earthworms, Gammarus, shrimp, and bloodworm. Will accept high-quality pellets and flakes but performs best with meaty foods, especially for breeding.
• Behavior: Shy ambush predator that can be aggressive toward similar-sized fish. Best kept as a species tank or with small, fast dither fish. Live-bearing; females produce 20–38 large young per brood. Males guard territories, and fry survival can be challenging even with abundant cover. Not recommended for beginners due to its size, predatory nature, and specific requirements.

IUCN Status Vulnerable (VU); some populations Critically Endangered

Add powerful presence, predatory behavior, and important conservation value to your cool-water or highland biotope aquarium with the impressive Bulldog Goodeid!