How to Identify Blackfin Goodea

To identify Blackfin Goodea (Goodea atripinnis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is typically silvery-grey to olive-brown, often with a darker lateral stripe or series of blotches. Fins, especially the dorsal and anal fins, are distinctly dark, almost black, particularly in mature males. Females tend to have less intense fin coloration.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Deep body profile, Small, upturned mouth, Darkly pigmented dorsal and anal fins, especially in males, Viviparous reproduction (live-bearing)

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, typically with 10-13 rays, positioned relatively far back on the body.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is emarginate to slightly forked.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are small and rounded.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin in males is modified into an andropodium for internal fertilization, a characteristic of Goodeidae. It has 10-13 rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Fin Coloration

   Look for the distinctively dark, almost black, dorsal and anal fins, especially in males. This is a key identifier.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Observe the relatively deep and compressed body, which distinguishes it from more slender goodeids.

3. 3

   Mouth Position

   Note the small, upturned mouth, indicating a surface or mid-water feeder.

4. 4

   Geographic Location

   Its presence in the Lerma-Chapala basin of Mexico is a strong indicator for this species.

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