Swordtail Mixed Pair

Description

Swordtail

The Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii) is a vibrant and hardy freshwater fish, making it a popular choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. Native to Central America, they are known for their distinctive sword-like tail extensions, especially prominent in males.​

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General Overview

• Size: Males typically reach up to 5 cm, while females can grow up to 8 cm.

• Lifespan: With proper care, Swordtails can live up to 5 years.

• Temperament: Generally peaceful but can exhibit territorial behavior, especially males. It’s advisable to maintain a higher female-to-male ratio (e.g., 3 females for every male) to reduce aggression.

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Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22–26°C (72–79°F)

• pH: 7.0–8.2

• Hardness: Moderate to hard water (12–30 dGH)

• Filtration: Moderate filtration with gentle water movement is ideal.​

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Tank Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)

• Decor: Provide plenty of plants, driftwood, and rocks to mimic their natural habitat and offer hiding spots. A secure lid is recommended, as Swordtails are adept jumpers. ​

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Diet

Swordtails are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet, including:​

• High-quality flake or pellet food

• Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia

• Vegetable matter such as blanched spinach or algae

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Breeding

• Reproduction: Livebearers; females give birth to 50–120 fry after a gestation period of 4–6 weeks.

• Care for Fry: To protect fry from predation, provide dense floating plants or use a breeding trap.

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Compatible Tank Mates

Swordtails are compatible with various community fish, including:​

• Other livebearers like mollies, platies, and guppies

• Tetras (e.g., neon or cardinal tetras)

• Corydoras catfish

• Dwarf gouramis

• Danios ​

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Common Health Issues

Swordtails are generally robust

Maintaining stable water conditions and regular tank maintenance can help prevent issues.

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Swordtails are a delightful addition to any freshwater aquarium, offering both beauty and activity. Their adaptability and ease of care make them suitable for various aquarium setups.