Red Tuxedo Swordtail (3cm) is a hardy, vibrant livebearer perfect for community aquariums. Peaceful, active, and beginner-friendly freshwater fish.

Add a splash of color and elegance to your aquarium with the Red Tuxedo Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii), a popular livebearer known for its brilliant red body contrasted by a bold black tuxedo pattern. At 3 cm when sold (juvenile size), this species grows up to 10–12 cm as an adult, making it a lively and eye-catching addition to any community setup.

Swordtails are widely admired for their hardy nature, adaptability, and active swimming behavior, making them a favorite for both beginners and experienced aquarists. Their signature feature—the elongated “sword” tail in males—adds uniqueness to your aquarium.

✅ Key Features

• Size: 3 cm (juvenile), up to 12 cm adult

• Temperament: Peaceful and active

• Care Level: Easy (beginner-friendly)

• Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care

• Special Trait: Livebearer species that breeds easily

Care Guide for Red Tuxedo Swordtail

✅ Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 75 liters (20 gallons) for a small group

• Aquascape: Add plants, driftwood, and open swimming spaces

• Substrate: Fine gravel or sand

• Lighting: Moderate; enhances vibrant red coloration

• Cover: Use a lid as they may jump

Keep them in groups (1 male to 2–3 females) to reduce stress and prevent harassment during breeding.

✅ Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22°C – 28°C (72°F – 82°F)

• pH Level: 7.0 – 8.3 (prefers slightly alkaline)

• Water Hardness: 10 – 30 dGH

• Filtration: Gentle to moderate flow with good oxygenation

• Water Changes: 25–30% weekly for stable water quality

✅ Feeding Habits

Swordtails are omnivores and accept a wide range of foods.

• Recommended Diet:

  • High-quality flakes or micro pellets

  • Live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia)

  • Vegetable-based foods and blanched greens (spinach, zucchini)

Feed small amounts twice daily to maintain good health and vibrant colors.

✅ Tank Mates

Red Tuxedo Swordtails are peaceful community fish.

Ideal Tank Mates:

• Guppies, Mollies, and Platies

• Corydoras catfish

• Tetras and Rasboras (non-aggressive species)

• Snails and shrimps (with caution)

Avoid aggressive species and fin-nippers that may harm their tails.

✅ Behavior & Breeding

• Behavior: Active swimmers; males display the iconic sword-shaped tail

• Breeding: Livebearers; females give birth to free-swimming fry every 4–6 weeks

• Tip: Provide dense plants or breeding boxes to protect fry from being eaten

Why Choose Red Tuxedo Swordtail?

• Brilliant color pattern for a striking aquarium display

• Easy to care for, perfect for beginners

• Hardy and adaptable to various conditions

• Livebearer species for hobbyists interested in breeding

✅ Perfect for community aquariums and planted tanks
✅ A vibrant, lively fish that adds energy and beauty