Premium Assorted Swordtails (Xiphophorus hellerii) - Tank Bred

For the safety of our animals, we now ship live fish exclusively via UPS Next Day Air. If your order contains this item, you will only see UPS Next Day Air as a shipping option during checkout.

Bright, active, and full of personality, our Premium Assorted Swordtails bring a splash of color and energy to any freshwater aquarium. Known for their signature tail extensions and peaceful demeanor, swordtails are a classic livebearer species that thrive in community tanks. This assorted pack features a rotating mix of vibrant varieties — from bright reds and oranges to metallic greens, blacks, and even patterned combinations. Every order includes a hand-selected mix of healthy, tank-raised specimens.

What We Love About These Fish:

• Bold Colors: A variety of color forms — no two packs are the same!
• Peaceful and Active: Great for planted and community aquariums.
• Easy to Care For: Hardy, undemanding, and beginner-friendly.
• Livebearers: May produce fry in your tank, making them fascinating to observe over time.

Natural Habitat:

Swordtails originate from freshwater rivers and streams in Central America, where they prefer clear, moderately flowing water with plenty of plant life and cover.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Enjoys a well-planted aquarium with open swimming areas. Great companions include Java Fern, Anubias, and Vallisneria.
• Hardscape: Add driftwood or river stones for a natural look and to define territory.
• Botanicals: Indian almond leaves or alder cones help create tannin-rich waters that support health and reduce stress.

Diet and Feeding:

Swordtails are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet. Offer high-quality flake or pellet food, along with occasional treats like frozen daphnia, bloodworms, and blanched vegetables. Our Ultra Fresh Tropical Flake or Shrimp Delight Flakes make ideal staples.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

These peaceful fish do well with other community fish like tetras, platies, mollies, rasboras, and corydoras. Avoid fin-nippers or overly aggressive species. Males may occasionally show territorial behavior, so provide space and cover to diffuse tension.

Shrimp Safe

Generally safe with adult Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp. Fry may be at risk if hiding spots are limited.

Breeding:

As livebearers, swordtails give birth to free-swimming fry. Males can be identified by their sword-like tail extension. Breeding is relatively easy, especially when the ratio favors multiple females to each male.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 72° – 82° F (22° – 28° C)
• pH: 7.0 – 8.3
• KH: 8 – 20 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Omnivorous; requires a mix of plant-based and protein-rich foods
• Social Behavior: Active and social; best in small groups
• Origin: Tank-bred
• Average Adult Size: 3 – 4 inches (7.6 – 10 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 1.5 – 2.5 inches (3.8 – 6.3 cm)

Add Color and Movement to Your Community Aquarium

With their flowing fins, friendly nature, and bold patterns, Premium Assorted Swordtails are a timeless favorite for freshwater aquarists. Whether you're just starting out or expanding your livebearer collection, these fish are a lively and rewarding addition.

Live Arrival Guarantee:
All Aquatic Arts brand animals come with a 100% live arrival guarantee, plus free email support if you ever have questions about care or compatibility.