Swordtail fish, scientifically known as Xiphophorus hellerii, are popular freshwater aquarium fish known for their live bearing reproduction and the distinctive “sword” extension on the males’ tails. They are peaceful, active swimmers belonging to the livebearer family, Poeciliidae, and are native to Central America.
Here’s a more detailed look:
- Livebearers:
Swordtails are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs.
- Distinctive Feature:
The males have a long, sword-like extension on the lower part of their tail fin, which gives them their name.
- Appearance:
They have a streamlined body, bright colours, and fan-shaped tails, and are closely related to guppies, mollies, and platies.
- Temperament:
Swordtails are generally peaceful but males may become territorial and aggressive towards each other, especially during breeding.
- Diet:
They are omnivores, enjoying a varied diet of both plant matter and small crustaceans, insects, and worms.
- Lifespan:
In home aquariums, they typically live for 3-5 years, with optimal conditions potentially extending their lifespan.
- Size:
They can grow up to 5-6 inches (13-15 cm) long, including the “sword” on males.
- Tank Size:
A 20-gallon long tank is recommended for a small group of swordtails
- Breeding:
They are relatively easy to breed in captivity, with females giving birth to a large number of fry (baby swordtails).
- Colour Varieties:
Many colour and pattern variations have been bred for the aquarium hobby, beyond the original green with a red stripe.
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