
Care Level
Temperament
Color(s)
Diet
Preferred Conditions
Avg. Max Size
Minimum Tank Size
Family
This hardy species of fish is an ideal choice for the beginning aquarist due to its peaceful nature and ease of care. The Swordtail is a colorful and active fish that will bring life to your aquarium. Furthermore, this species is relatively easy to breed and can be housed with other compatible species. To ensure the health and happiness of your Swordtail, ensure that the aquarium is well-maintained and contains plenty of plants and hiding places. Additionally, ensure that the aquarium is covered to prevent the Swordtail from jumping out of the tank.
The Swordtail is a popular choice for the freshwater aquarium. It is a live-bearing fish related to guppies, mollies, and platys, and is known for its ability to produce up to 80 fry at one time. For this reason, it is essential to provide either a spawning box or plenty of dense floating cover to protect the young. To avoid overpopulation in the aquarium, male Swordtail fry should be separated when their sex is determined, usually at three months of age. It is important to plan ahead if you want to keep Swordtails in your tank, as they can start breeding quickly and in large numbers. Providing plenty of hiding places, as well as tank mates that are not overly aggressive, can help promote a healthy habitat for your Swordtails.
The Swordtail is an omnivorous fish that will eat commercially prepared flaked foods and algae as well as freeze dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.