Pineapple Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii) – Bright, Peaceful, and Hardy Livebearer

🍍 Pineapple Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii) – Bright, Peaceful, and Hardy Livebearer

The Pineapple Swordtail is a vibrant Xiphophorus hellerii variety named for its brilliant golden-orange body and contrasting red tail, resembling the colors of a ripe pineapple. Swordtails are active, peaceful, and easy to care for — making them an excellent choice for community aquariums and beginner fish keepers alike.

Males are easily recognized by their elongated “sword” tail extension, while females are rounder and equally colorful. These fish bring both motion and warmth to any freshwater setup.

🌟 Key Features

• 🍍 Vibrant Coloration: Golden-yellow body with orange to red accents on fins and tail
• 🐠 Distinctive Swordtail Fin: Males feature the iconic lower tail extension
• 💧 Peaceful Livebearer: Great for planted or community aquariums
• 🌿 Easy to Breed: Hardy and prolific in well-maintained tanks
• 💪 Beginner-Friendly: Adapts to a variety of water conditions
• ✨ Perfect for Group Setups: Thrive best in small schools of 5+

⚙️ Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Xiphophorus hellerii
• Common Name: Pineapple Swordtail
• Adult Size: 4–5 inches (males slightly smaller)
• Tank Size: 20 gallons or larger
• Water Temperature: 72–82°F
• pH: 7.0–8.0
• Diet: Omnivore – flakes, pellets, and vegetable-based foods such as spirulina
• Behavior: Peaceful; best in groups with a mix of males and females
• Tank Mates: Guppies, mollies, platys, corydoras, tetras, and snails

❓ FAQ

Q: Are Pineapple Swordtails easy to care for?
A: Yes — they’re hardy, colorful, and adaptable to a wide range of freshwater conditions.

Q: Can they breed in my aquarium?
A: Absolutely! Swordtails are livebearers, meaning females give birth to free-swimming fry.

Q: Can Pineapple Swordtails live with other fish?
A: Yes — they’re peaceful and ideal for community tanks with other non-aggressive species.