Spotted Skiffia, Lago De Camecuaro

Spotted Skiffia (Skiffia multipunctata)

Also known as Tiro pintado

Collection Point: Lago De Camecuaro

A rare and variable livebearing fish from the highlands of Jalisco and Michoacán, Mexico. Once more widespread, this endangered species now persists in only a handful of localities, primarily in the upper Río Duero drainage. It is prized by enthusiasts for its attractive spotting, the striking and highly variable coloration of males (often yellow to orange with dark blotches), and its importance as a conservation-priority goodeid.

Key Features

• Maximum Size: 7.2 cm / ~2.8 inches SL.
• Appearance: Olive-brown to brown-grey body with numerous small dark spots on the flanks and fins (hence “multipunctata”). Females usually retain the spotted pattern; males are more colorful, often developing yellow to orange hues with a bluish sheen on the forehead during courtship and variable dark blotching. Males have a larger, notched dorsal fin and the characteristic goodeid splitfin.
• Fin Details: Males develop a noticeably larger and serrated dorsal fin with the split anal fin typical of goodeids.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: Minimum 60 liters / ~15 gallons (larger preferred, low height ~25 cm) for a small group.
• Water Parameters: Cool to subtropical; 50–77°F (10–25°C), pH 7.0–8.5, moderate hardness. High oxygen levels (>8 mg/L) and moderate current are important. Provide gravel, rocks, roots, branches, and dense vegetation for cover and grazing surfaces. A winter cooling period below 20°C (for 2–3 months) helps regulate breeding.
• Diet: Primarily herbivorous grazer — readily accepts algae on rocks/leaves, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and high-quality flake/granulate foods. Supplement with occasional live or frozen foods (brine shrimp nauplii, daphnia) for conditioning.
• Behavior: Generally peaceful and not shy, though males can be territorial. Best kept in groups with plenty of cover. Live-bearing; females produce relatively few but well-developed young. Fry survival is good with abundant food and hiding places. Excellent for species tanks or peaceful community setups with other small fish.

IUCN Status Critically Endangered (CR)