Painted Swordtail

Common NamePainted Swordtail Other Common Names-- Scientific NameXiphophorus hellri FamilyPoeciliidae CommunityGeneral ClassSwords Temperature78 ºF Swimming RangeTop-Middle Adult Length4-4 1/2 inches Feeding HabitsLive blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen vegetable diet, beef heart, brine shrimp, daphnia, plankton, blood worms and glass worms. Freeze dried and flake foods are also accepted. CompatibilityPeaceful and schooling fish. Males should be outnumbered by the females two to one.HabitatCentral America: Moderately decorated with rocks, live plants and driftwood. BreedingMales have the extension on their tail fins. Livebearers that can produced up to 80 offspring at a time. The fry may be eaten by their parents and other fish in the aquarium so they should be separated. Additional CommentsMany color and fin variations have been produced by commercial breeders.