Swordtail
Xiphophorus hellerii
Family : Poeciliidae
The swordtail is an easy ovoviviparous fish, recognizable by the male's caudal sword, very popular in aquariums.
Description
Xiphophorus hellerii reaches 10-14 cm (male with sword). The male has a sword-like extension on the caudal fin. The female is larger and without sword. Wild coloration is olive green with a red lateral stripe. Cultivated varieties are very diverse (red, green, black, marbled). It is an active, peaceful fish, but males can be territorial with each other. It lives in groups. It sometimes jumps.
Habitat
Region :
The swordtail lives in rivers and streams with moderate current, with dense vegetation. The water is clear, hard and alkaline. It frequents shallow areas.
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
A tank of at least 100 L for a group. Water should be hard (GH 10-20), alkaline (pH 7.0-8.0), temperature 24-28°C. Good filtration. Plants to hide fry. Omnivorous: flakes, pellets, vegetables, artemia. Prolific. Compatible with other hard water fish (molly, platies). Avoid aggressive species. Males may fight, provide a ratio of 2-3 females per male.
Similar species
Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance
