The Black tailed red swordtail fish (Xiphophorus helleri) is a popular freshwater aquarium fish known for its vibrant colors, particularly the striking red variant, and its easy care requirements.
Characteristics
Appearance: The most distinctive feature of the red swordtail is the elongated lower lobe of the male’s caudal fin, resembling a sword. Males typically have this prominent tail, while females have shorter, fan-like fins. The body color can vary, with red being the most common, but they can also be found in orange, black, and multi-colored varieties.
Size: Adult swordtail fish usually grow to about 5 to 6 inches in length, with females being slightly larger than males.
Habitat and Tank Requirements
Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 15 to 20 gallons is recommended to provide ample swimming space, as swordtails are active swimmers.
Water Conditions: They thrive in a temperature range of 65-82°F (18-28°C) and prefer a pH level between 7.0 and 8.3. Swordtails are adaptable and can tolerate a variety of water conditions, making them suitable for community tanks.
Environment: A well-planted tank with open swimming areas is ideal. While they enjoy some vegetation, a densely planted environment is not necessary. They prefer sandy or rocky substrates and can adapt to various tank setups.
Diet
Feeding: Red swordtails are omnivorous and require a balanced diet that includes high-quality flake food, pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. It’s important to feed them in small portions two to three times a day, ensuring all food is consumed within a few minutes to maintain water quality.
Breeding
Reproduction: Swordtails are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. They are prolific breeders, and females can often be seen with a dark gravid spot near their anal fin when pregnant. Breeding can occur naturally in a community tank, but controlled breeding can help select for desirable traits.
Compatibility
Tank Mates: Red swordtails are generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of other community fish. However, it’s best to avoid aggressive species that may harass them. Keeping them in groups of at least three to five individuals is recommended to promote social behavior.
In summary, the red swordtail fish is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced aquarists due to its vibrant appearance, adaptability, and ease of care. With proper tank conditions and a balanced diet, they can thrive and bring life to any freshwater aquarium.
size (1.25″-1.5″)
