-
×
-
×
Subtotal: £59.99
Sale!
10 X Red & White Swordtails – Xiphophorus Hellerii – Livebearer
Original price was: £39.99.£33.87Current price is: £33.87.
Welcome these 10 beautiful Red & White Swordtails, Xiphophorus Hellerii, to your aquarium. Their vibrant red coloration and elegant tails create stunning visuals in any freshwater setup. Ideal for beginners, these livebearers thrive in community tanks, ensuring a captivating aquatic experience.
999 in stock
Species Introduction
Key Features – 10 X Red & White Swordtails – Xiphophorus Hellerii – Livebearer
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefits | Enhances your aquarium ecosystem |
| Quality | Premium aquarium-grade materials |
| Ease of Use | Simple setup and maintenance |
The Red & White Swordtails, scientifically known as Xiphophorus hellerii, are vibrant freshwater fish that originate from the warm waters of Central America. They are part of the livebearer family, which means they give birth to free-swimming young rather than laying eggs. This species is particularly admired for its striking coloration and the graceful sword-like extension of the males’ tails, which adds an elegant touch to any aquarium. Swordtails are not only beautiful but also flourishing, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. Their natural habitat includes rivers and streams where they thrive among aquatic plants, providing a rich environment for their social interactions and breeding behaviors.
Care Requirements Dashboard
✓ Care Level: Easy
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons
Water Temperature: 72°F to 82°F
pH Level: 7.0 to 8.0
Hardness: 10-30 dGH
Caring for Red & White Swordtails requires attention to their specific environmental needs. A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended to provide ample swimming space and to maintain stable water parameters. These fish thrive in a temperature range of 72°F to 82°F, with a pH level between 7.0 and 8.0. It is essential to monitor water hardness, keeping it between 10-30 dGH to ensure their optimal health. Regular water changes and quality testing will help maintain these parameters, promoting a healthy and thriving aquarium.
Natural Behavior & Temperament
Red & White Swordtails are known for their lively and active swimming patterns. They are social fish that thrive in groups, making them ideal for community tanks. Their peaceful temperament allows them to coexist with various other species, provided that tank mates are not overly aggressive. In a well-planted aquarium, these fish exhibit natural behaviors such as courtship displays, where males will flaunt their vibrant tails to attract females. This behavior not only adds visual interest to the tank but also fosters a dynamic and engaging environment for both the fish and the aquarist. Observing their social interactions can be a rewarding experience, as they establish hierarchies and engage in playful activities.
Tank Setup Guide
✓ Ideal Environment: Planted Tank
Substrate: Fine gravel or sand
Decorations: Rocks, driftwood, and live plants
Lighting: Moderate to bright
Creating an ideal environment for your Red & White Swordtails involves careful consideration of tank setup. A well-planted aquarium not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides essential hiding spots for fry and resting areas for adult fish. A substrate of fine gravel or sand is recommended to mimic their natural habitat. Incorporating decorations such as rocks and driftwood can create territories and encourage natural behaviors. Moderate to bright lighting will support plant growth and enhance the colors of your fish, making your aquarium a vibrant display of life.
Water Quality Management
Maintaining optimal water quality is crucial for the health and well-being of your Red & White Swordtails. Regular testing of pH, temperature, and hardness should be part of your routine. These fish prefer a slightly alkaline environment, with a pH level ranging from 7.0 to 8.0. Water temperature should be kept stable between 72°F and 82°F, as fluctuations can lead to stress and health issues. Additionally, monitoring water hardness is essential, as these fish thrive in a range of 10-30 dGH. Implementing a reliable filtration system and performing regular water changes will help maintain clean and healthy water conditions, reducing the risk of disease and promoting vibrant colors.
Feeding & Nutrition
✓ Diet: Omnivorous
Feeding Schedule: 2-3 times per day
Food Types: Flakes, pellets, and live foods
Red & White Swordtails are omnivorous and require a balanced diet to thrive. Their diet should consist of high-quality flakes or pellets specifically formulated for tropical fish, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia. Feeding should occur 2-3 times per day, providing only what they can consume within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality. A varied diet will not only enhance their health but also promote vibrant colors and overall vitality. Observing their feeding habits can also provide insights into their health and well-being.
Compatibility Guide
✓ Peaceful Community Fish
Compatible Tank Mates: Tetras, Corydoras, Guppies
Avoid: Aggressive species like Cichlids
When considering tank mates for your Red & White Swordtails, it is essential to choose peaceful species that will not pose a threat to their well-being. Ideal companions include Tetras, Corydoras, and Guppies, which share similar water requirements and temperaments. However, it is crucial to avoid aggressive species, such as Cichlids, which may stress or harm these gentle fish. By creating a harmonious community tank, you will foster a thriving environment where all fish can coexist peacefully, enhancing the overall beauty and activity of your aquarium.
Health & Wellness
✓ Common Issues: Fin rot, ich
Prevention: Maintain water quality, avoid overcrowding
Keeping your Red & White Swordtails healthy requires vigilance and proactive care. Common health issues include fin rot and ich, which can arise from poor water quality or stress. To prevent these ailments, it is crucial to maintain optimal water conditions and avoid overcrowding in the tank. Regular monitoring of your fish’s behavior and appearance will help identify any signs of distress or illness early on. If health issues do arise, prompt treatment with appropriate medications and adjustments to their environment can help restore their well-being.
Breeding Information
✓ Prolific Breeders
Fry Care: Provide hiding spots
Spawning: Occurs in a separate breeding tank
Red & White Swordtails are known for their prolific breeding capabilities. When provided with optimal conditions, they can produce a significant number of fry. To encourage breeding, it is advisable to maintain a ratio of one male to two or three females. Spawning typically occurs in a separate breeding tank equipped with plenty of hiding spots, such as plants or decorations, to protect the fry from being eaten by adult fish. After a gestation period of about 4-6 weeks, females will give birth to live young, which should be fed infusoria or finely crushed flakes until they are large enough to consume regular food.
Acclimation Process
Introducing your Red & White Swordtails to their new home requires a careful acclimation process to minimize 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 that, gradually mix small amounts of aquarium water into the bag over the next 30 minutes. This process helps the fish adjust to the new water parameters. Finally, gently release the fish into the tank without adding the bag water to avoid introducing any contaminants. Monitoring their behavior during the first few hours will help you ensure they are settling in comfortably.
Long-term Care
Long-term care for your Red & White Swordtails involves regular maintenance and observation. These fish can live for several years with proper care, so establishing a consistent routine is essential. Regular water changes, testing water parameters, and monitoring fish health will contribute to a thriving aquarium. Additionally, providing a varied diet and ensuring a balanced community tank will enhance their overall well-being. As your fish grow, be prepared to adjust tank conditions and space to accommodate their needs, ensuring they continue to thrive in their aquatic environment.
Natural Habitat Recreation
✓ Biotope Setup: Mimic natural environment
Plants: Use native aquatic plants
Substrate: Fine sand or gravel
Recreating the natural habitat of Red & White Swordtails in your aquarium can enhance their comfort and well-being. Incorporating native aquatic plants, such as Java Fern or Anubias, will provide hiding spots and mimic their natural environment. A substrate of fine sand or gravel will not only be aesthetically pleasing but also beneficial for the fish’s natural behaviors. By carefully designing your tank to reflect their native habitat, you will create a more enriching environment that promotes healthy social interactions and breeding behaviors.
Seasonal Care Adjustments
As seasons change, it is important to make adjustments to your Red & White Swordtails’ care routine. During warmer months, ensure that the water temperature remains stable and does not exceed 82°F, as higher temperatures can lead to stress and health issues. In contrast, during colder months, consider using a heater to maintain the optimal temperature range. Additionally, adjusting the lighting duration can help simulate seasonal changes, promoting natural behaviors and breeding cycles. Regularly checking water parameters and making necessary adjustments will help ensure a stable environment throughout the year.
Expert Tips
✓ Professional Advice: Monitor water quality
Tip: Use a high-quality water conditioner
Tip: Provide a varied diet for optimal health
For those looking to enhance their care for Red & White Swordtails, consider investing in a high-quality water conditioner to ensure optimal water quality. Regularly monitoring parameters will help you catch any fluctuations early, allowing for timely adjustments. Additionally, providing a varied diet that includes both high-quality flakes and live foods will promote vibrant colors and robust health in your fish friends. Engaging with your aquarium regularly will foster a deeper understanding of your aquatic companions and their needs.
Troubleshooting
✓ Common Problems: Stress, aggression
Solution: Increase hiding spots, reduce stocking density
If you encounter issues such as stress or aggression among your Red & White Swordtails, consider evaluating the tank environment. Increasing the number of hiding spots and territories can help reduce stress levels and promote a more harmonious community. Additionally, if overcrowding is a concern, reducing the number of fish in the tank can alleviate competition for space and resources. Regular observation and adjustments will help maintain a peaceful and thriving aquarium.
Scientific Background
Understanding the scientific background of Red & White Swordtails can enhance your appreciation for these beautiful fish. Belonging to the family Poeciliidae, Xiphophorus hellerii is closely related to other popular livebearers, such as guppies and mollies. Their adaptability to various freshwater environments has made them a favorite among aquarists. Conservation efforts are important for maintaining their populations in the wild, as habitat destruction poses a threat to their natural habitats. By caring for these fish in a home aquarium setting, aquarists can contribute to the awareness and appreciation of their species and the ecosystems they inhabit.
Advanced Care Techniques
✓ Expert-Level Husbandry
Tip: Implement a breeding program
Tip: Monitor genetic diversity
For advanced aquarists, implementing a breeding program for Red & White Swordtails can be a rewarding endeavor. Monitoring genetic diversity is crucial to avoid inbreeding and to maintain healthy populations. Keeping detailed records of breeding pairs and their offspring can help you understand the traits being passed down. Additionally, experimenting with different tank setups and environmental conditions can lead to fascinating insights into their breeding behaviors and preferences. Engaging in advanced care techniques not only enhances your skills as an aquarist but also contributes to the overall health and vitality of your aquatic companions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What tank size is required for Red & White Swordtails?
For a group of 10 Red & White Swordtails, a minimum tank size of 75 litres (20 gallons) is recommended. This provides ample swimming space and helps maintain stable water parameters. Swordtails are active swimmers and thrive in larger spaces. If you wish to include tank mates, consider increasing the tank size accordingly to avoid overcrowding. A well-planted tank with open swimming areas will promote their natural behaviour and reduce stress levels.
✓ Expert Tip
Ensure your tank has a secure lid, as Swordtails can be jumpy, especially in smaller tanks.
Q: What water parameters do Red & White Swordtails require?
Red & White Swordtails prefer slightly alkaline water with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.0 and a temperature between 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F). They thrive in well-filtered water with moderate hardness, ideally between 10-20 dGH. Regular water changes of 10-15% weekly will help maintain these parameters and keep your aquatic companions healthy. Use a quality water conditioner to remove chlorine and chloramines before introducing tap water.
✓ Expert Tip
Invest in a reliable water testing kit to monitor pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels regularly.
Q: How often should I feed Red & White Swordtails?
Feed your Red & White Swordtails 2-3 times a day, providing only what they can consume within 2-3 minutes. A varied diet is essential for optimal health; include high-quality flake food, frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia, and occasional vegetable matter like blanched spinach. Overfeeding can lead to water quality issues and health complications, so always monitor feeding amounts and adjust as necessary.
✓ Expert Tip
Consider using a feeding ring to help keep food in one area, ensuring all fish can access nourishment equally.
Q: What are the best tank mates for Red & White Swordtails?
Red & White Swordtails are generally peaceful and can coexist with a variety of community fish. Suitable tank mates include other livebearers like guppies and platies, as well as tetras, rasboras, and corydoras. Avoid aggressive species or those that may nip fins, as this can stress your Swordtails. Always ensure that the tank is spacious enough to accommodate all species comfortably, and monitor interactions closely during the initial introduction phase.
✓ Expert Tip
Introduce new fish gradually to prevent territorial disputes and ensure a harmonious community.
Q: How do I properly acclimatise Red & White Swordtails to my aquarium?
Acclimatisation is crucial for reducing stress in newly introduced Red & White Swordtails. Start by floating the sealed bag in the aquarium for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the temperature to equalise. Then, gradually add small amounts of your aquarium water to the bag every 5 minutes for around an hour. Finally, gently release the fish into the tank, avoiding adding the bag water directly to your aquarium. This method helps them adjust to the new environment more comfortably.
✓ Expert Tip
Limit handling of the fish as much as possible to reduce stress; use a net only if necessary.
Q: What are the signs of healthy Red & White Swordtails?
Healthy Red & White Swordtails exhibit vibrant colours, clear eyes, and active swimming behaviour. They should show no signs of distress, such as clamped fins or lethargy. Regular feeding and social interaction with tank mates are also indicators of good health. Monitor for any unusual behaviour or physical changes, such as lesions or swelling, which may indicate health issues that require attention and possibly veterinary intervention.
✓ Expert Tip
Regular health checks can help catch potential issues early; observe your fish daily.
Q: How do I successfully breed Red & White Swordtails?
Breeding Red & White Swordtails is relatively straightforward, as they are livebearers. To encourage breeding, maintain a healthy environment with stable water conditions and provide plenty of hiding spots for fry. Introduce a male to a female in a breeding tank, and once she is pregnant, which can be indicated by a dark gravid spot near her anal fin, she will give birth to live fry after around 4-6 weeks. Ensure to separate the fry from adult fish to prevent predation.
✓ Expert Tip
Provide high-quality fry food, such as powdered flakes or infusoria, to support their growth.
Q: What temperature should I maintain for Red & White Swordtails?
A stable temperature is vital for the health of your Red & White Swordtails, ideally between 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F). Sudden temperature fluctuations can lead to stress and health issues. Use a reliable aquarium heater to maintain consistent warmth, and regularly check the water temperature with a thermometer. Establishing a temperature gradient can help fish self-regulate their comfort levels.
✓ Expert Tip
Position the heater near the filter outlet for even heat distribution throughout the tank.
Q: How long do Red & White Swordtails typically live in captivity?
With proper care, Red & White Swordtails can live for 3 to 5 years in captivity. Factors like water quality, diet, and tank conditions play a significant role in their longevity. Regular maintenance, including water changes and monitoring for diseases, can enhance their lifespan. Providing a stress-free environment with suitable tank mates will also contribute to their overall well-being.
✓ Expert Tip
Keep a log of your fish’s health and tank parameters to identify any trends that may affect their lifespan.
Q: What type of substrate is most suitable for Red & White Swordtails?
A fine to medium gravel substrate is ideal for Red & White Swordtails, as it allows for easy cleaning and promotes beneficial bacteria growth. A sandy substrate can also be suitable, especially if you plan to include plants. Ensure the substrate is smooth to prevent injury to their delicate fins. Incorporating live plants can enhance the aesthetic appeal and provide hiding spots for fry.
✓ Expert Tip
Rinse the substrate thoroughly before adding it to the tank to remove any dust and debris.
Q: What behavioural patterns should I expect from Red & White Swordtails?
Red & White Swordtails are generally sociable and active fish. They enjoy swimming in groups, which can help reduce stress and encourage natural behaviours. You may observe males displaying to females, showcasing their vibrant colours and sword-like tails. They are also known to explore their environment, so providing plants and decorations can foster a stimulating habitat. Be mindful of territorial behaviour, especially during breeding periods.
✓ Expert Tip
Encourage social interaction by keeping a group of at least 5-6 Swordtails to ensure a healthy dynamic.
Q: How can I prevent common diseases in Red & White Swordtails?
Preventing diseases in Red & White Swordtails involves maintaining optimal water quality, providing a balanced diet, and minimising stress. Regular water changes and tank maintenance can prevent the build-up of harmful toxins. Quarantine new fish before introducing them to your main tank to prevent the spread of pathogens. Additionally, observe your fish for any signs of illness, such as changes in behaviour or appearance, and address any issues promptly.
✓ Expert Tip
Consider adding aquarium salt to your tank as a preventive measure against certain diseases, but ensure it is suitable for all tank inhabitants.
Q: What lighting conditions do Red & White Swordtails prefer?
Red & White Swordtails thrive in moderate lighting conditions. Bright light can enhance their colours but may also lead to stress if it is too intense. A combination of natural and artificial lighting can be beneficial, with a photoperiod of around 10-12 hours daily. This mimics their natural habitat and encourages healthy plant growth in the aquarium. Consider using a dimmable LED light for flexibility in adjusting brightness levels.
✓ Expert Tip
Include floating plants to provide shade and reduce light intensity, creating a more comfortable environment.
Q: How do I recognise stress in Red & White Swordtails?
Signs of stress in Red & White Swordtails may include hiding, clamped fins, erratic swimming, loss of appetite, or faded colours. Stress can be caused by poor water quality, unsuitable tank mates, or sudden changes in their environment. If you observe these behaviours, assess tank conditions and consider making necessary adjustments to alleviate stress. Regular monitoring and prompt action can help maintain a healthy and thriving aquarium.
✓ Expert Tip
Create a calm environment with plenty of hiding spots to help your fish feel secure.
Q: What natural habitat conditions should I replicate for Red & White Swordtails?
In their natural habitat, Red & White Swordtails inhabit warm, shallow waters with plenty of vegetation. To replicate these conditions, provide a well-planted aquarium with areas for hiding and swimming. Use a substrate that mimics their natural environment, such as fine gravel or sand, and ensure good filtration to maintain water quality. Incorporating driftwood and rocks can also enhance the aesthetic and provide additional shelter.
✓ Expert Tip
Regularly trim plants to prevent overgrowth and ensure adequate swimming space for your fish.
1 review for 10 X Red & White Swordtails – Xiphophorus Hellerii – Livebearer
Add a review
Related products
£9.89 – £12.19
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£167.20 – £460.90
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Emily Carter (verified owner) –
I recently purchased the 10 X Red & White Swordtails, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision! These little beauties arrived healthy and vibrant, showcasing their stunning colors right out of the bag. It’s been two weeks since I added them to my community tank, and they’ve settled in beautifully, displaying such lively behavior.
One of the things I love most about these fish is their adaptability to different water conditions, which makes them perfect for both beginners and seasoned aquarists. I’ve been feeding them a balanced diet of high-quality flakes and live food, and they seem to thrive on it! The swordtails are not only visually appealing but also great for keeping the tank lively.
Compared to other livebearers I’ve had, these swordtails are much more social and interact with each other, creating a captivating display. The only minor concern is that they can be a bit nippy during feeding time, but this is typical behavior for many species.
I highly recommend these swordtails for anyone looking to add some color and activity to their freshwater aquarium. They truly bring joy and life to my tank, and I can’t wait to see them grow even more!