4 X Red Swordtails – Xiphophorus Hellerii – Livebearer

Attributes: 4 X Red Swordtails – Xiphophorus Hellerii – Livebearer
Short Description: 4 X Red Swordtails are vibrant and beautiful livebearer fish that add color and life to any aquarium. They are easy to care for and breed, making them a popular choice for both beginner and experienced fishkeepers.
Product Categories: Swordtails, Fish

Product Description:
Scientific and Common Names:
The scientific name for the Red Swordtail is Xiphophorus Hellerii. It is commonly known as the Red Swordtail due to the distinctive elongated lower fin on the male, resembling a sword.

Habitat:
Red Swordtails are native to Central America, specifically Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras. They inhabit freshwater rivers, streams, and ponds with moderate water flow and vegetation.

Tank Setup:
A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for a group of 10 Red Swordtails. Provide a well-filtered aquarium with a mix of open swimming space and planted areas for hiding and grazing. They prefer a temperature range of 72-82°F (22-28°C) and a pH level between 7.0 and 8.0.

Diet and Nutrition:
Red Swordtails are omnivorous and will readily accept a variety of foods. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food as a staple. Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia to provide essential nutrients.

Size and Growth Rate:
Adult male Red Swordtails can reach a length of up to 4 inches (10 cm), while females are slightly larger, reaching around 5 inches (12 cm). They have a moderate growth rate and can reach their full size within a year.

Behavioral Traits:
Red Swordtails are peaceful and social fish that can be kept with other peaceful community fish. Males are more colorful and have the characteristic sword-like fin, while females have a more rounded fin shape. They are active swimmers and enjoy exploring their environment.

Care Level:
Red Swordtails are considered easy to care for, making them suitable for beginners. They are hardy and adaptable to a wide range of water conditions.

Breeding and Reproduction:
Red Swordtails are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young instead of laying eggs. Males have a modified anal fin called a gonopodium, which is used to fertilize the female. Females can give birth to a large number of fry every 4-6 weeks under optimal conditions.

Health and Disease Prevention:
Maintaining good water quality, providing a balanced diet, and avoiding overcrowding are essential for the health of Red Swordtails. Regular water changes and monitoring for signs of disease or stress are recommended. Quarantining new fish before introducing them to the main tank can help prevent the spread of diseases.

Optimal Water Conditions:
– Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
– pH: 7.0-8.0
– Hardness: 10-25 dGH

Lifespan:
With proper care, Red Swordtails can live for 3-5 years on average. Some individuals may live longer under optimal conditions.

Additional Interesting Facts:
– Red Swordtails are known for their ability to adapt to a wide range of water conditions, making them suitable for various aquarium setups.
– They are named after the elongated lower fin on the male, which resembles a sword.
– Red Swordtails are prolific breeders, and their fry can be raised separately or left in the main tank with sufficient hiding places.
– They are active swimmers and enjoy exploring their environment, making them a delight to watch in the aquarium.