Swordtail - Black - Xiphophorus helleri var. "Black" : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Black Swordtails (Xiphophorus helleri) are a favorite among aquarium aficionados, prized for their beauty and adaptability. They're hardy fish that easily adjust to various water conditions, making them excellent choices for beginners in fishkeeping. Vibrant yet calm, they mix well in community tanks with other mild-mannered species. It's essential to avoid pairing them with larger, dominant fish, as Swordtails often hide amidst tank decorations when threatened. While they enjoy being in groups, Swordtails don't school together. A group of at least five, with more females than males, is ideal to reduce male rivalry.
They have a penchant for aquatic plants, sometimes grazing on them, particularly when avoiding bigger tank inhabitants. However, tanks don't need to be heavily planted; a balanced number of plants is adequate. It's best to limit wood elements, opting for rock-based decorations instead. This choice reduces the risk of humic and tannic acids, which can lower the pH — an environment less favored by Swordtails, who prefer neutral to slightly alkaline waters. A gentle water flow is also beneficial for them.
The term "swordtail" aptly describes their signature trait: an elongated caudal fin, mainly prominent in males, that trails along their underside. This unique tail, which can be half as long as the male's body, sets them apart from the females who don't have this extended fin feature.
Swordtail - Black Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Determining the sex of an Black Swordtails is straightforward. Males possess a Gonopodium, a unique anal fin used for mating. They also have a noticeable extension from the bottom of their tail fin, which can sometimes be as long as half of their body. Females, on the other hand, don't have this elongated tail feature. Generally, females are also bigger than their male counterparts, Please see the sexing slider on this page for a visual representation.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Xiphophorus helleri var. "Black" |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1848 |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cyprinodontiformes |
| Family | Poeciliidae |
| Genus | Xiphophorus |
| Origins | |
| Max Size | 14 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Groups 5+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Livebearer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.0 - 8.5 |
| GH | 12 - 30 |
| ℉ | 65 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 18 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
Originating from the crystal-clear, fast-moving waters of streams and rivers in places like Veracruz, Mexico, Guatemala, and northwestern Honduras, Swordtails are truly a sight to behold. These versatile fish thrive in a variety of water environments, from canals and ponds to thermal springs. Although they have a tendency to graze on aquatic vegetation, they don't strictly need tanks teeming with plants. They usually avoid areas thick with wood or copious leaf debris, preferring clear habitats with sandy, rocky, and bright substrates. While they can survive in places with mulm and detritus, they truly thrive in swift-flowing waters.
It's important to emphasize that the Black Swordtail isn't a naturally occurring variety in the wild. This distinct breed is a result of careful and deliberate selective breeding. In short, while Swordtails can add a touch of elegance and energy to any aquarium setup, not all variations of this species are crafted by nature itself.
Breeding
Breeding Black Swordtails is straightforward, making them perfect for novice fishkeepers. In the right tank environment, males and females will mate without intervention. It's not uncommon for females, when first added to a tank, to already be expecting. These females can set up a breeding group once their young reach sexual maturity, typically around three months. You can spot advanced pregnancy stages by the prominent dark gravid spot near the female's anal fin.
To ensure a peaceful tank and reduce male aggression towards females, aim for a male-to-female ratio of 1:3 or 1:4. Including plants and structures in the tank is beneficial, providing protective hideaways for newborn fry and keeping them safe from tank predators. Another method to enhance fry survival rates is using a separate growth tank.
From birth, Swordtail fry are eager feeders. Starting them on hatched brine shrimp and finely crushed flake food is excellent, gradually moving them to regular fish food as they mature. While Swordtail fry grow at a relatively moderate pace, regular water changes and a protein-rich diet can speed up their growth. In essence, Swordtails offer a straightforward and rewarding breeding journey for aquarium enthusiasts.
Diet & Feeding
Feeding Black Swordtails is straightforward due to their versatile dietary preferences, which naturally encompass algae and aquatic plants. In captivity, it's crucial to provide a varied diet of quality dry foods such as flakes, pellets, granules, and algae wafers. Enhance their diet with premium frozen and live foods, including brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, fruit flies, bloodworms, and daphnia.
A balanced diet should combine proteins and plant matter. Ideally, feed them in modest quantities two to three times a day, ensuring they consume their food within minutes. Any leftovers should be promptly removed to preserve water clarity. Swordtails adapt well to regular feeding times, becoming notably lively during feedings. A consistent and diverse diet is key to keeping these fish in optimal health and showing off their vibrant colors.
