{"product_id":"assorted-swordtail-xiphophorus-hellerii","title":"Assorted Swordtail – Colorful Freshwater Livebearer","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAssorted Swordtails\u003c\/strong\u003e are active, colorful freshwater livebearers available in a variety of selectively bred colors and patterns. Most aquarium-store swordtails are derived primarily from \u003cstrong\u003eXiphophorus hellerii\u003c\/strong\u003e, with many domestic strains showing influence from related Xiphophorus species through selective breeding and hybridization.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese hardy, energetic fish are popular in freshwater community aquariums and are especially well suited to tanks with moderately hard to hard, alkaline water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eColorful freshwater livebearer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvailable in assorted colors and patterns\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eActive and social community fish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMales develop the characteristic sword-like lower tail extension\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHardy and adaptable when kept in appropriate water conditions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExcellent for medium to large freshwater community aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLivebearing species that gives birth to free-swimming fry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProduct Information\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Assorted Swordtail\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Primarily Xiphophorus hellerii-type domestic strains\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Poeciliidae\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdult Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Commonly around 4–6 inches depending on sex and strain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peaceful to moderately assertive\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e Omnivore\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Freshwater\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBreeding Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Livebearer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eColor \u0026amp; Appearance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAssorted Swordtails may include a wide variety of colors and patterns depending on availability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon aquarium strains may include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOrange\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGreen\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBlack\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWagtail\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuxedo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNeon\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLyretail\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHi-fin varieties\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMixed or patterned color forms\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExact coloration and pattern will vary from fish to fish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAdult Size\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSwordtails are larger than many common livebearers. Adult males can reach approximately 5–6 inches including the extended lower portion of the tail, while females may become similarly large or slightly larger-bodied.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFishBase reports maximum total lengths of approximately 14 cm for males and 16 cm for females in the species. :chatgpt-content-reference{index=\"1\"}\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRecommended Tank Size\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003e30-gallon aquarium or larger\u003c\/strong\u003e is a good practical minimum for a small group of Swordtails, with larger aquariums preferred for multiple males or mixed livebearer communities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeriously Fish recommends a tank footprint of approximately 48 × 12 inches for the species, reflecting their active swimming behavior and adult size. :chatgpt-content-reference{index=\"2\"}\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWater Parameters\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 68–82°F practical aquarium range\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e 7.0–8.0\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 10–25 dGH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSwordtails generally perform best in moderately hard to hard, mineral-rich water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStable water quality is more important than chasing an exact number. Avoid sudden changes in temperature, pH, or mineral content.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAquarium Setup\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAssorted Swordtails appreciate an aquarium with both open swimming space and areas of plant cover.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA suitable setup may include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLive or artificial plants\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFloating plants\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDriftwood\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRockwork\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOpen swimming areas\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eModerate water movement\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA secure lid\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSwordtails are strong swimmers and can jump, so a secure aquarium lid is recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTemperament\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSwordtails are generally peaceful community fish, but adult males may display toward one another and establish dominance hierarchies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProviding adequate space, plant cover, and a suitable male-to-female ratio can help reduce persistent chasing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMale to Female Ratio\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen keeping mixed sexes, a ratio of approximately \u003cstrong\u003e1 male to 2–3 females\u003c\/strong\u003e is commonly recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis helps distribute male attention among several females and reduces stress on any one individual.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMale-only groups may also be possible in sufficiently large aquariums, although some chasing and dominance behavior should be expected.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTank Mates\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAssorted Swordtails can be kept with many peaceful to moderately active community fish that prefer similar water conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotential tank mates include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlaties\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMollies\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGuppies\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePeaceful rainbowfish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSome barbs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePeaceful tetras suited to harder water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCorydoras where water parameters overlap\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOther similarly sized peaceful community fish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid keeping Swordtails with fish that are extremely aggressive, large enough to eat them, or require dramatically different water chemistry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDiet\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSwordtails are omnivores. Wild Xiphophorus hellerii consume a combination of small invertebrates, algae, detritus, and plant material. :chatgpt-content-reference{index=\"3\"}\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the aquarium, offer a varied diet that may include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigh-quality tropical flakes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSmall pellets or granules\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpirulina-based foods\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlgae-based foods\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFrozen brine shrimp\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFrozen daphnia\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFrozen bloodworms as an occasional treat\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA varied diet containing both plant and animal ingredients helps support good condition and coloration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBreeding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSwordtails are \u003cstrong\u003elivebearers\u003c\/strong\u003e, meaning females give birth to free-swimming fry rather than laying eggs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey breed readily under good aquarium conditions, so mixed-sex groups can produce fry frequently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDense plants, floating plants, or breeder grass can provide hiding places for newborn fry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdult fish may eat young fry, so a separate grow-out tank or dense cover may be needed if you want to raise larger numbers of offspring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMale vs. Female Swordtail\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMales\u003c\/strong\u003e typically develop the distinctive elongated lower portion of the tail known as the “sword.” They also possess a gonopodium, a modified anal fin used for reproduction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFemales\u003c\/strong\u003e generally lack the sword extension and tend to develop fuller, deeper bodies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eImportant Care Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep water moderately hard to hard and alkaline.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse a secure lid because Swordtails can jump.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide plenty of swimming space.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvoid overcrowding males in small aquariums.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaintain stable water quality with regular partial water changes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExpect mixed-sex groups to reproduce readily.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow big do Swordtails get?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMost aquarium Swordtails reach approximately 4–6 inches depending on sex and strain, with males appearing longer because of the sword extension.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat temperature do Swordtails prefer?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA practical aquarium range is approximately 68–82°F.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat pH do Swordtails prefer?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey generally do best around pH 7.0–8.0.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre Swordtails peaceful?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes, generally. Males can become competitive with one another, especially in smaller aquariums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo Swordtails need aquarium salt?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRoutine salt use is not required. Good mineral content and stable, appropriately hard water are more important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre Swordtails livebearers?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes. Females give birth to free-swimming fry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWill the fish look exactly like the photo?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNot necessarily. This is an assorted listing, so color, pattern, fin shape, and sex may vary depending on current stock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAvailable at Tropical Treasures Wyo\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAssorted Swordtails are available from \u003cstrong\u003eTropical Treasures Wyo\u003c\/strong\u003e in Cheyenne, Wyoming, when in stock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive fish are available for in-store purchase or local pickup only and are not available for shipping.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tropical Treasures Wyo LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":67630312325333,"sku":"G14","price":5.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"url":"https:\/\/tropicaltreasureswyo.com\/products\/assorted-swordtail-xiphophorus-hellerii","provider":"Tropical Treasures Wyo LLC","version":"1.0","type":"link"}