Totally random question but I'm sure this is the group to pose it to - how many unique strains (collection locations) of Xiphophorus nezahualcoyotl are in the hobby at this time, and is the maintenance of breeding lines with distinct provenance important for this species in the hobby?
In other words, is a "Nezzy" a "Nezzy" or is there more to be concerned with as a breeder of this species?
I ask, because I like the species, and think I want to give it a go but would like to get broodstock from multiple breeders if possible. Some seem to have provenance info, others not.
Thanks for your expertise in responding to these questions.
When I was breeding, Fancy Xiphophorus were my thing not wild forms (though I have had and bred several of the wild species during those days) so I probably shouldn't be answering this. There are different populations of X.Nezahualcoyotl, not strains or species.
There are the El Salto, Rio Tamasi and Ocampo locations. The first one is different than the last 2. The last one definitely has a spotted and unspotted form - I've raised both. There may be other locations lurking around universities and a few hobbyist's tanks. The thing with breeding nezzies is to chose the large late developing males and large females. This species can devolve into small fish easily with unimaginative, genetically backwards and lazy "colony breeding" styles but with selective breeding you can get almost 3 inch long thick robust males with great blue bodies and yellow dorsals and orange swords - spectacular. The females can get to 4 inches. So don't settle for the runts around.
