Ameca splendens
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Ameca splendens faces extinction primarily due to severe habitat degradation and water extraction in its native Rio Ameca system in Jalisco, Mexico. Introduced exotic fish species, particularly tilapia and other cichlids, have disrupted the ecosystem and compete directly with this endemic goodeid. Urban development and agricultural expansion have further reduced water quality and flow in the already limited spring-fed habitats where this species evolved.
Habitat
This endemic Mexican fish inhabits shallow, spring-fed pools and slow-flowing sections of the Rio Ameca drainage system in Jalisco. The species requires clear, well-oxygenated waters with abundant aquatic vegetation and prefers areas with sandy or rocky substrates near natural springs.
