Latin Name: Xiphophorus hellerii
Other Names: Golden Swordtail
How hard are they to keep? Yellow Swordtails are relatively easy to keep and are considered a good choice for beginners. They can adapt to various water conditions and are fairly hardy.
What is its maximum size? The maximum size of a Yellow Swordtail is around 4 inches (10 centimetres) in length.
Where are they from? Yellow Swordtails are originally from Central America, specifically Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala. They have also been introduced to various parts of the world due to their popularity.
How many can I keep? Swordtails are social fish and should be kept in groups of at least 3 to 5 individuals. They are active swimmers, so providing them with enough space is important.
How compatible are they with other fish? Yellow Swordtails are generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of other peaceful fish species. They are best kept with other community fish that share similar water temperature and pH requirements.
What are the ideal water conditions? Yellow Swordtails prefer a water temperature between 75-82°F (24-28°C), a pH level between 7.0-8.3, and slightly hard water with a general hardness of 12-20 dGH. They can tolerate a range of water conditions, but it’s best to provide them with clean and well-filtered water. The Yellow Swordtails that are for sale have been climatized to our local water conditions.
How do you tell the difference between Male and female? Male Yellow Swordtails are typically larger in size and have a distinct elongated caudal fin, often referred to as a “sword.” Females have a rounder body shape and a shorter, fan-shaped caudal fin. Additionally, males may display more vibrant colours and have a gonopodium, a modified anal fin used for reproduction.
Fun Fact: Yellow Swordtails are prolific breeders and can give birth to live young instead of laying eggs, making them part of a group of fish known as livebearers. They are known for their ability to quickly reproduce in aquariums under favourable conditions.
