There’s something extraordinary about keeping a fish that almost wasn’t here anymore.

The Tequila Goodeid isn’t just another pretty face in your aquarium—though, let’s be honest, it is pretty. With shimmering silver flanks and an orange tail that glows like a tequila sunrise, this little livebearer brings a splash of natural beauty straight from the springs of western Mexico. But what truly makes Zoogoneticus tequila special isn’t just its color—it’s the story behind its survival.

🌎 The Fish That Came Back From the Brink

Native only to a single river system in Jalisco, Mexico, the Tequila Goodeid faced near extinction in the wild by the late 1990s. Pollution, invasive species, and habitat destruction decimated its population. For years, it was believed to be lost entirely from its native range.

But thanks to passionate hobbyists, conservationists, and a handful of dedicated breeders, the Tequila Goodeid got a second chance. Carefully maintained breeding programs—both in Europe and the United States—have kept this species alive. Today, USA-bred specimens are helping ensure that this fish not only survives but thrives in the hands of aquarists like you.

💛 Why We Love the Tequila Goodeid

• A Rare Beauty – That bright orange tail set against a soft metallic body is simple but stunning. Males develop golden hues as they mature.

• Peaceful & Hardy – They’re calm, social fish that do well in cooler water setups and planted community tanks.

• A Living Legacy – Every tank-raised goodeid is part of a larger effort to keep this species alive. When you keep them, you're part of that mission.

• Breed with Purpose – These fish reproduce readily, giving hobbyists a hands-on role in species preservation.

A male Tequila Goodeid (Zoogoneticus tequila) displays his signature orange caudal fin and golden body tones—markings that intensify with maturity and good care.

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⚠️ Why You Shouldn’t Buy Tequila Goodeids

We believe these fish deserve thoughtful homes—and that sometimes, the best decision is not to add them to your tank.

Here’s when it’s better to wait:

• You’re Looking for a Showstopper Right Away
  Juveniles are subtle and take time to show full color. Their beauty grows with age and care.

• You Prefer Warm, Tropical Tanks
  These fish thrive in cooler water (68°–75°F) and aren’t ideal for typical heated aquariums.

• You’re Not Ready for Fry
  These livebearers reproduce easily. If you’re not prepared to manage breeding, rehome offspring, or control population, it could become a problem.

• You’re Not Interested in Species Preservation
  These fish are critically endangered. If you’re not committed to responsible breeding, record keeping, and avoiding hybridization, it’s best to pass for now.

• You Expect Instant Community Compatibility
  They’re peaceful, but still best in species-only tanks or with carefully selected tank mates.

These fish are for aquarists who want to do more than decorate—they want to make a difference.

A female Tequila Goodeid (Zoogoneticus tequila) shows off her subtle silver body and rounded fin shape. While less colorful than males, females play a crucial role in preserving this critically endangered species.

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🧠 Tequila Goodeid Q&A – Everything You’ve Wanted to Ask

Q: Are Tequila Goodeids good for beginners?
A: Yes! They're hardy, adaptable, and perfect for aquarists looking to take on a meaningful challenge.

Q: What size tank do I need for a group?
A: A 20-gallon long is great for a group of 6. These are social fish that do best in groups with a little room to roam.

Q: Are they aggressive?
A: Not at all. Males may do a bit of posturing, but they’re peaceful and community-safe overall.

Q: Can I breed them at home?
A: Absolutely. They’re livebearers that breed readily in healthy setups—just provide some plant cover and good water quality.

Q: Do they eat their babies?
A: Occasionally. Fry survival is better with dense plants like guppy grass or hornwort.

Q: What water conditions do they need?
A:
• Temperature: 68°–75°F (20°–24°C)
• pH: 7.0–8.0
• Hardness: dGH 10–20
They prefer moderate flow and well-oxygenated water.

Q: What do they eat?
A: A varied diet of high-quality flakes, pellets, frozen foods, and blanched veggies. They’re not picky.

Q: Are they shrimp-safe?
A: Generally yes, though they may snack on tiny shrimp or fry. They coexist well with larger Neocaridina and Amanos.

Q: Where are they from?
A: The Teuchitlán Springs of Jalisco, Mexico—just outside the town of Tequila, which is how they got their name.

Q: Why should I keep them?
A: Because you can make a real difference. Every home-bred goodeid adds to the future of this species—and few fish come with that kind of legacy.

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Ready to be part of something bigger than your tank?
Add a group of Tequila Goodeids to your aquarium and help write the next chapter in this species’ story. These are USA-bred from domestic conservation lines—not pulled from the wild—and every one you raise is a victory for biodiversity.