Pineapple Swordtail (Xiphophorus helleri)

The Pineapple Swordtail boasts exuberant coloration reminiscent of tropical flowers in bloom. Vibrant shades of red and orange are energized by an iridescent sheen, making the stunning Pineapple Swordtail a very desirable color variety of the Xiphophorus helleri Swordtail.

The Swordtail is perhaps the quintessential community aquarium fish. The time-tested popularity of the Swordtail can be attributed to its ease of care, peaceful temperament, and wonderfully diverse fin and color varieties. The most common Swordtail varieties include: Red Wag, Red Velvet, Marigold, Black Nubian, and Pineapple Swordtail. The male Swordtail is especially prized for its namesake feature, the showy extension on the lower part of its tail resembling a sword.

The Pineapple Swordtail requires an aquarium of at least 20 gallons that is well planted with plenty of room for swimming. Because of its peaceful nature, the Pineapple Swordtail is well suited for the community aquarium. However, the male Pineapple Swordtail can demonstrate territorial aggression towards other male Swordtails so care should be taken when housing more than one male. Also, the Pineapple Swordtail is an accomplished jumper, so be sure to provide a secure cover for the aquarium.

The Pineapple Swordtail is a live-bearing fish related to freshwater aquarium favorites including guppies, mollies, and platys. As such, a female Pineapple Swordtail can give birth to as many as 80 fry at one time. A spawning box is recommended, or if one is not available, provide dense floating cover to protect the Swordtail fry from potential predation by the adults. Unless it is your intention to breed Pineapple Swordtail, the male Swordtail fry should be separated once the sex of the fry is determined. The Pineapple Swordtail can begin breeding as young as three months of age and can quickly overpopulate an aquarium.

The Pineapple Swordtail is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flaked foods and algae, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.

Approximate Purchase Size: 1" to 2".

Care details

• Temperature: 64 - 82° F
• dKH: 12 - 30
• Color: Orange, Red and Yellow
• Family: Poeciliidae
• Diet: Omnivore