Swordtail Fish Care Guide

Swordtails are closely related to platies and mollies, sharing the same livebearing reproduction and easygoing temperament, but distinguished by the male’s elongated sword-like tail extension.

Tank Setup

Swordtails are active swimmers and appreciate a longer tank of 20 gallons or more with open swimming areas and planted margins.

Sex Ratio

Keep more females than males in a group, since males can be persistent in courting females and a skewed ratio reduces stress on any individual female.

Diet

Swordtails are easy keepers, accepting flakes, pellets, and occasional live or frozen treats without issue.

Tank Mates

Swordtails are generally peaceful and coexist well with other livebearers like platies and mollies, as well as corydoras catfish and tetras.

Browse our swordtail selection, including the Red Calico Swordtail.