Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii)
Fish in the family Poeciliidae. Easy care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific nameXiphophorus hellerii
FamilyPoeciliidae
Also known asGreen Swordtail, Red Swordtail
Care levelEasy
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentPeaceful
DietOmnivore
Adult size5.5 in
Minimum tank size20 gallons
Water parametersTemp 70-82°F, pH 7.0-8.2, GH 12-30 dGH
Appearance
Elongate livebearer; mature males bear the trademark sword extension of the lower caudal fin. Strains include red, green, pineapple, lyretail and tuxedo.
Difficulty and care for the Swordtail
Easy
Origin and habitat
Mexico and Central America
Keeper notes
Mostly peaceful but males can be territorial and chase each other; keep one male per few females or several males in a larger group. Accomplished jumpers.
Log Swordtail in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Swordtail alongside everything else in your reef.
