Fish
Swordtail
Xiphophorus hellerii
BeginnerFreshwater
Origin: Mexico, Central America
Also known as: Green Swordtail, Xiphophorus hellerii
Fact sheet
- Size
- 12 cm
- Lifespan
- 5 years
- Minimum tank size
- 80 L
- Temperature
- 20–28 °C
- pH
- 7–8
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Social behavior
- Schooling
- Swimming zone
- Middle, Top
- Diet
- Omnivore
Overview
A classic livebearing aquarium fish. Males have the characteristic elongated lower tail ray (the 'sword').
Appearance
Up to 12 cm. Males with elongated lower tail ray.
Care
Prefers alkaline water. Spacious tank.
Feeding
Omnivore. Flakes, pellets, bloodworm.
Compatibility
Peaceful. Keep more females than males.
Breeding
Livebearing. 20-80 fry every 4-6 weeks.
Fun facts
Males can spontaneously change sex to female.