Swordtail
Xiphophorus hellerii
FishFreshwater
- Care level
- Easy
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Recommended tank
- 100 L
- Maximum size
- 12 cm
- Temperature
- 21–28 °C
- pH
- 7–8.3
- Diet
- Omnivore
Care at a glance
The swordtail owes its name to the extended lower tail ray of the male, which trails behind him like a rapier. It is a lively, active swimmer that clearly needs more tank length than its smaller relatives the platy and the guppy.
Males are quite fierce with each other, so keep one per tank, or a group with a healthy surplus of females. They breed effortlessly and are keen jumpers, so a well-fitting cover is not a luxury. Hard, slightly alkaline water with sturdy planting along the sides suits them best.
Good to know
Related species
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Values are mainstream hobbyist guidance, not gospel — always watch what your own animals need.