Xiphophorus hellerii
Swordtail
A rewarding companion for an owner who has researched its needs honestly. As with every animal on this site, this profile is a starting point: confirm details with a vet or specialist before bringing one home.
PoeciliidaeLifespan 3–5 yearsCare complexity 1/5Suitable for beginners
Representative fish photography; individual appearances vary.
At a glance
- Scientific name
- Xiphophorus hellerii
- Family
- Poeciliidae
- Origin
- Mexico and Central America
- Lifespan
- 3–5 years
- Adult size
- 10–14 cm including the sword
- Weight
- 4–8 g
- Temperament
- Active, hardy livebearer; males carry the namesake sword extension on the tail.
- Activity level
- High; a strong, restless swimmer.
- Social needs
- Keep in groups with at least two females per male; males can be pushy.
- Intelligence
- Modest.
- Noise
- Silent.
Housing and environment
- Housing
- Minimum 100 litres with a secure lid — they jump.
- Space requirement
- Long community tank.
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C.
- Humidity
- Not applicable.
- Exercise
- Needs swimming length more than height.
- Grooming
- Not applicable.
Diet and feeding
Omnivorous flake with vegetable content plus occasional frozen foods.
Behaviour and compatibility
Breeds readily; males may squabble in small tanks.
- With children
- Good family fish.
- With other animals
- Peaceful with other robust community fish.
- Training difficulty
- Not trainable.
Health
- Ich
- Fin rot
- Stress from male harassment
A covered tank is essential; swordtails are notorious jumpers.
Special care requirements
See the housing, diet and health sections — this species has needs that are easy to underestimate.