Original price was: £48.99.£41.61Current price is: £41.61.
Welcome these beautiful 10 X Red Lyretail Swordtails into your aquarium. Their vibrant red color and elegant lyretail shape make them stunning additions to any tank. These peaceful community members thrive in well-maintained environments, perfect for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
1001 in stock
The Red Lyretail Swordtail, scientifically known as Xiphophorus hellerii, is a captivating species belonging to the family Poeciliidae. These beautiful freshwater fish are native to the warm waters of Central America, particularly in regions of Mexico and Guatemala. Swordtails are renowned for their vibrant colors and distinctive tail shapes, which make them a popular choice among aquarists. The Red Lyretail variety showcases a stunning red hue with elongated tail fins that resemble a sword, adding a touch of elegance to any aquarium setup. These fish thrive in a variety of freshwater environments, making them adaptable and resilient, which is why they are often recommended for both novice and experienced fish keepers alike.
✓ Care Level: Easy
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons
Water Temperature: 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C)
pH Level: 6.5 to 8.0
Water Hardness: 10 to 28 dGH
To ensure optimal health and well-being, it is essential to provide a suitable environment for your Red Lyretail Swordtails. A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended to allow ample swimming space and to maintain stable water parameters. The ideal water temperature should range between 72°F and 82°F (22°C to 28°C), with a pH level between 6.5 and 8.0. These fish are quite adaptable to varying water hardness, thriving in conditions ranging from 10 to 28 dGH. Regular water changes and quality monitoring are crucial for maintaining a healthy aquatic environment.
Red Lyretail Swordtails are known for their lively and sociable nature, making them a delightful addition to community tanks. These fish exhibit a peaceful temperament, often swimming in groups and displaying playful interactions with their tank mates. Their natural behavior includes exploring the aquarium, foraging for food, and establishing social hierarchies within their groups. Swordtails are also known for their curious nature, often investigating new decorations or plants added to their habitat. This active behavior not only enhances the visual appeal of your aquarium but also contributes to the overall health and well-being of these aquatic companions.
Creating an ideal environment for your Red Lyretail Swordtails involves careful consideration of tank setup. Start with a spacious aquarium of at least 20 gallons, ensuring it is well-filtered to maintain water quality. The substrate can be a fine gravel or sand, which allows for easy planting of live aquatic plants. Incorporating live plants not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides hiding spots and territories for the fish. Additionally, consider adding decorations such as driftwood and rocks to create a natural habitat. These elements encourage exploration and mimic their native environment, promoting healthy behavior and reducing stress.
Maintaining optimal water quality is crucial for the health of your Red Lyretail Swordtails. Regular testing of water parameters is essential to ensure they remain within the recommended ranges. The pH level should be monitored closely, aiming for a stable range between 6.5 and 8.0. Temperature fluctuations should be minimized, keeping the water consistently between 72°F and 82°F (22°C to 28°C). Additionally, maintaining appropriate water hardness between 10 and 28 dGH is vital. Regular water changes of 10-20% weekly will help in removing toxins and replenishing essential minerals, contributing to a healthy and thriving aquatic environment.
âš Important Feeding Note
Feed a varied diet including high-quality flakes, pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods.
The dietary needs of Red Lyretail Swordtails are diverse, requiring a balanced diet to promote health and vitality. A high-quality flake or pellet food should form the basis of their diet, supplemented with occasional live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms. Feeding should occur 1-2 times daily, providing only what they can consume in a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality. Additionally, incorporating vegetable matter, such as spirulina flakes or blanched vegetables, can enhance their nutritional intake and support overall health.
Red Lyretail Swordtails are generally peaceful and can coexist with a variety of other fish species, making them excellent choices for community tanks. Compatible tank mates include other livebearers such as guppies and platies, as well as tetras, rasboras, and peaceful cichlids. However, it is crucial to avoid aggressive species that may harass or outcompete them for food. When introducing new fish, ensure that the tank is adequately sized to accommodate all inhabitants, and monitor interactions closely to prevent stress or aggression. A well-planned community tank can create a vibrant and harmonious aquatic environment.
Maintaining the health and wellness of your Red Lyretail Swordtails involves regular monitoring and preventive care. Common health issues include fin rot, ich, and other parasitic infections. Signs of illness may include lethargy, loss of appetite, or unusual swimming behavior. To prevent these issues, ensure proper water quality, avoid overstocking, and provide a varied diet. Quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank to minimize the risk of disease transmission. Regular observation and prompt action at the first signs of illness are key to maintaining a healthy aquarium.
Breeding Red Lyretail Swordtails can be a rewarding experience for aquarists. These livebearers do not require a separate breeding tank, but providing plenty of hiding spots is essential to protect the fry. The female swordtail will give birth to live young, typically between 20 to 100 fry at a time, depending on her size and health. After birth, it is crucial to remove the adults to prevent them from eating the fry. The fry should be fed with finely crushed flakes or specialized fry food until they are large enough to consume regular food. Monitoring the growth and health of the fry is essential as they develop into vibrant adults.
Introducing your new Red Lyretail Swordtails to their new home requires a careful acclimation process to reduce stress and ensure a smooth transition. Begin by floating the sealed bag containing the fish in the aquarium for about 15-20 minutes to equalize the temperature. After this, gradually introduce small amounts of aquarium water into the bag over the next hour. This slow acclimation helps the fish adjust to the water parameters of their new environment. Once acclimated, gently release the fish into the tank, avoiding the introduction of bag water to prevent contamination.
Long-term care of Red Lyretail Swordtails involves ongoing attention to their environment and health. These fish typically live for 3 to 5 years, depending on care and environmental conditions. Regular water changes, monitoring of water parameters, and maintaining a balanced diet are essential for longevity. Additionally, keeping an eye on their social interactions and overall behavior will help in identifying any potential issues early. Providing a stable and enriching environment is key to ensuring that your aquatic companions thrive throughout their lives.
Recreating the natural habitat of Red Lyretail Swordtails can enhance their well-being and encourage natural behaviors. In the wild, these fish inhabit shallow waters with plenty of vegetation, providing cover and foraging opportunities. To mimic this environment, incorporate a variety of live plants, such as Java fern or Anubias, along with open swimming spaces. Using driftwood and rocks can create hiding spots and territories, allowing the fish to feel secure. Additionally, maintaining a gentle water flow will simulate their natural habitat and promote a healthy ecosystem.
As seasons change, so too may the needs of your Red Lyretail Swordtails. During warmer months, ensure that the water temperature remains stable, as fluctuations can stress the fish. In colder months, consider using a heater to maintain the ideal temperature range. Additionally, lighting adjustments may be necessary to mimic natural daylight cycles, promoting healthy growth and behavior. Regular monitoring of water quality and parameters throughout the year will help in adapting to seasonal changes, ensuring a stable and healthy environment for your aquatic companions.
For those looking to enhance their experience with Red Lyretail Swordtails, consider the following expert tips. First, ensure a varied diet to promote vibrant colors and health; incorporating high-quality foods will make a significant difference. Second, maintaining a well-planted tank not only provides hiding spots but also contributes to better water quality through natural filtration. Third, observe your fish regularly to detect any signs of stress or illness early on. Lastly, consider joining local aquarist groups or online forums to share experiences and gain insights from fellow enthusiasts.
In the event of issues arising within your aquarium, it is crucial to troubleshoot effectively. Common problems may include water quality issues, aggression among tank mates, or signs of illness. If you notice any unusual behavior or physical symptoms, such as discoloration or lesions, perform a water test to check parameters and make necessary adjustments. If aggression is observed, consider rearranging the tank or adding more hiding spots to diffuse tension. Keeping a close eye on your fish and their environment will help in identifying and resolving issues promptly.
The Red Lyretail Swordtail belongs to the family Poeciliidae, which encompasses a variety of livebearing fish. This family is known for its diverse species, many of which are popular in the aquarium trade. Swordtails are particularly interesting due to their unique reproductive strategy, where females give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. This adaptation allows for greater survival rates in their natural habitats. Ongoing research into the genetics and breeding of swordtails continues to provide insights into their care and conservation, highlighting the importance of responsible fish keeping.
For aquarists looking to take their care of Red Lyretail Swordtails to the next level, consider implementing advanced techniques such as selective breeding to enhance desired traits. This process requires a good understanding of genetics and careful selection of breeding pairs. Additionally, explore the use of live foods to stimulate natural hunting behaviors and improve overall health. Regular participation in aquarist communities can provide valuable insights and support for those interested in advanced care techniques, ensuring that your aquatic companions thrive in their environment.
For 10 Red Lyretail Swordtails, a tank size of at least 100 litres is highly recommended. This will provide ample swimming space and allow for territorial behaviour, which is important for their social interactions. A larger tank also helps maintain stable water parameters, which is crucial for their health. Ensure that the tank is well-filtered and has a secure lid, as these fish are known jumpers. Adding plants and decorations can also create hiding spots, which help reduce stress and enhance their well-being.
✓ Expert Tip
Consider a tank with a length of 120 cm or more for optimal swimming space.
Red Lyretail Swordtails thrive in slightly alkaline water with a pH of 7.0 to 8.0. The temperature should be maintained between 24°C to 28°C, mimicking their natural habitat. Regular water changes of 20-30% weekly are essential to maintain water quality, as these fish are sensitive to ammonia and nitrite levels. A hardness level of 10-28 dGH is ideal, providing necessary minerals for their wellbeing. Using a reliable test kit can help keep track of these parameters.
✓ Expert Tip
Invest in a good quality water conditioner to neutralise harmful substances.
Red Lyretail Swordtails should be fed 2-3 times per day with an amount they can consume within a few minutes. A varied diet is crucial for their health, including high-quality flakes, pellets, and occasional treats like frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia. Overfeeding can lead to water quality issues, so it’s important to monitor their intake. Additionally, fasting them once a week can help to prevent digestive problems.
✓ Expert Tip
Use a feeding ring to prevent food from floating away.
Red Lyretail Swordtails are generally peaceful and can coexist with a variety of community fish. Ideal tank mates include other livebearers such as guppies and platies, as well as tetras and rasboras. Avoid aggressive species that might bully them. It’s important to consider the size and temperament of potential tank mates to ensure a harmonious environment. Always introduce new fish gradually to avoid territorial disputes.
✓ Expert Tip
Consider adding a few plants to create hiding spots and reduce stress.
Acclimatisation is vital for reducing stress in new fish. Begin by floating the sealed bag containing the Swordtails in the aquarium for about 15-20 minutes to equalise the temperature. Next, gradually introduce small amounts of tank water into the bag over an hour. This helps them adjust to the water chemistry. After this period, gently transfer the fish into the tank using a net to avoid adding bag water, which may contain harmful substances.
✓ Expert Tip
Perform acclimatisation in dim light to reduce stress levels.
Healthy Red Lyretail Swordtails exhibit vibrant colours, active swimming behaviour, and clear, unclouded eyes. They should also display a good appetite and interact well with tank mates. Signs of distress may include lethargy, loss of colour, abnormal swimming patterns, or hiding excessively. Regular observation helps in identifying any health issues early, allowing for prompt action to ensure their wellbeing.
✓ Expert Tip
Keep a journal of their behaviour and health for better monitoring.
Breeding Red Lyretail Swordtails is relatively straightforward, as they are livebearers. To encourage breeding, maintain a ratio of one male to two or three females. Provide ample hiding spots in the tank, such as dense plants, where fry can seek refuge after birth. The ideal temperature for breeding is around 26°C. After a gestation period of about 4-6 weeks, females will give birth to live fry. It’s advisable to separate the fry from adults to prevent them from being eaten.
✓ Expert Tip
Use a breeding box if you wish to control the breeding process more closely.
Maintaining a stable temperature between 24°C to 28°C is crucial for the health and activity of Red Lyretail Swordtails. Sudden fluctuations can lead to stress and illness. A reliable aquarium heater can help achieve this, and it is advisable to use a thermometer to monitor the temperature regularly. Moreover, ensure the heater is appropriate for the size of your tank to maintain consistent warmth.
✓ Expert Tip
Use a heater guard to prevent fish from getting burned.
In captivity, Red Lyretail Swordtails can live for 3 to 5 years, provided they are kept in suitable conditions. Regular maintenance of water quality, appropriate feeding, and a stress-free environment contribute significantly to their lifespan. Observing their behaviour and health regularly will also help in identifying any issues early, allowing for timely intervention.
✓ Expert Tip
Consider keeping a small journal to track their health and habits.
For Red Lyretail Swordtails, a sandy or fine gravel substrate is ideal. These substrates mimic their natural habitat and are gentle on their delicate fins. Additionally, they allow for easy planting of aquatic plants, which provide cover and breeding sites. It’s essential to avoid sharp substrates, as they can injure the fish. Regular vacuuming will help maintain cleanliness without disturbing the substrate too much.
✓ Expert Tip
Adding live plants can enhance the tank’s beauty and improve water quality.
Red Lyretail Swordtails are generally active and social fish. They often swim in groups, displaying playful behaviour and interactions with their tank mates. Males may exhibit territorial behaviour, especially during breeding, but they are not overly aggressive. Observing their interactions can be quite entertaining, as they exhibit various swimming patterns and colours. Providing ample space and hiding spots will help minimise any potential conflicts.
✓ Expert Tip
Introduce new fish gradually to avoid territorial disputes.
Preventing diseases in Red Lyretail Swordtails involves maintaining excellent water quality and a stress-free environment. Regular water changes and monitoring for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels are crucial. Quarantining new fish before introducing them to the main tank can also prevent the spread of diseases. Additionally, providing a balanced diet rich in vitamins will enhance their immune systems, making them less susceptible to illnesses.
✓ Expert Tip
Consider adding aquarium salt to the water to help with general health.
Red Lyretail Swordtails prefer moderate lighting that mimics their natural habitat. Too much bright light can cause stress and encourage algae growth, while too little can inhibit plant growth and make the fish feel insecure. A combination of LED lighting with a timer can help simulate a natural day/night cycle. Additionally, incorporating floating plants can provide shaded areas, allowing the fish to retreat from bright light when desired.
✓ Expert Tip
Adjust lighting gradually to avoid shocking the fish.
Signs of stress in Red Lyretail Swordtails can include erratic swimming, hiding excessively, and loss of colour. They may also exhibit signs of aggression or lethargy. If you observe these behaviours, it may indicate poor water quality, overcrowding, or unsuitable tank mates. Regular monitoring of their environment and behaviour is essential for early detection of stress, allowing for timely intervention to enhance their wellbeing.
✓ Expert Tip
Ensure the tank is not overcrowded to reduce stress levels.
Red Lyretail Swordtails are native to freshwater environments, typically found in slow-moving rivers and ponds. To replicate their natural habitat, provide a tank with plenty of plants, driftwood, and open swimming areas. A sandy or fine gravel substrate is ideal, along with moderate lighting. Maintaining stable water parameters, including temperature and pH, will further enhance their comfort and encourage natural behaviour.
✓ Expert Tip
Regularly trim plants to prevent overcrowding and promote healthy growth.
Emily Carter (verified owner) –
I recently purchased 10 Red Lyretail Swordtails for my freshwater aquarium, and I couldn’t be happier! These little guys are not only stunning with their vibrant red and green hues, but they also have such playful personalities. I’ve noticed after just two weeks that they easily get along with my other fish, including some platies, creating a lively community tank.
One thing I really appreciate is their hardiness; they’ve adapted well to my water parameters, showing no signs of stress. The shipping was prompt, and each fish arrived healthy and full of energy. The only minor concern I had was that one of them seemed a bit shy at first, but it quickly acclimated and now swims confidently with the rest.
Overall, I highly recommend these swordtails to both beginner and experienced aquarists. They bring so much joy and color to my setup, and I can see them thriving in any peaceful freshwater environment. If you’re looking to enhance your aquarium fish collection, these Red Lyretails are a fantastic choice!