Red Wagtail Swordtail

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Xiphophorus hellerii
• Common Name: Red Wagtail Swordtail
• Adult Size: Up to 5.5 inches (14 cm) — males are generally smaller than females
• Life Expectancy: 3–5 years with good care
• Habitat: Native to Central America (Mexico, Honduras, Belize). Inhabits rivers, streams, and heavily vegetated waters with moderate current.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (larger for multiple fish)
• Ideal Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• pH Range: 7.0–8.4
• Water Hardness: 12–30 dGH (moderately hard to hard water)

• Temperament: Peaceful, active, but can be territorial—best kept with similarly sized, non-aggressive fish.

Diet & Nutrition

• Type: Omnivorous
• Diet: Accepts flakes, pellets, vegetables (blanched spinach, peas), and live/frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms

• Feed once or twice daily in moderate amounts

Breeding & Spawning

• Breeding Type: Livebearer
• Behavior: Males court females actively; females give birth to live fry
• Fry Care: Fry should be separated or provided with hiding spaces, as adults may eat them

• Can produce 20–100+ fry every 4–6 weeks

Appearance

• Color: Bright gold or orange body with shimmering scales
• Tail: Males have an extended sword-like tail fin

• Body Shape: Streamlined with a slightly arched back

Distinctive Features

• Signature sword tail on males (long lower caudal fin extension)
• Active swimmers, very hardy
• Great beginner fish for community aquariums

• The “comet” variation is known for enhanced brightness and vivid golden hue