Orange Swordtail

The Orange Swordtail (Xiphophorus helleri) is a bright and cheerful livebearer known for its vibrant orange coloration and distinctive sword-like tail extension in males. These beautiful fish feature a solid orange color that shines under aquarium lighting, creating a warm and inviting appearance. Peaceful, active, and easy to care for, Orange Swordtails add both intense color and constant activity to any community aquarium. Their hardy nature and beautiful appearance make them perfect for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

Care Sheet – Orange Swordtail (Xiphophorus helleri)

Temperament

• Peaceful, active, and social

• Best kept in groups with mixed genders or single-sex groups

Adult Size

• Males: 4–5 inches (including sword), Females: 5–6 inches

Minimum Tank Size

• 20 gallons for a small group

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 70–82°F

• pH: 7.0–8.0 (prefers slightly alkaline water)

• Hardness: Moderate to hard (10–20 dGH)

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20–30 ppm

Diet

• Omnivorous

• Feed a varied diet:

  • High-quality flakes or pellets

  • Frozen or live foods: brine shrimp, daphnia

  • Color-enhancing foods to maintain vibrant orange

• Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily

Behavior & Compatibility

• Excellent for peaceful community tanks

• Compatible with:

  • Other livebearers, larger tetras, rasboras

  • Corydoras and other peaceful bottom dwellers

  • Peaceful gouramis and rainbowfish

• Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species

Aquarium Setup

• Planted tanks with dark substrate to enhance orange color

• Moderate lighting to showcase vibrant orange

• Moderate water flow

• Clean, well-maintained water

Care Level

• Easy

• Very hardy and beginner-friendly

Lifespan

• 3–5 years with proper care

Special Notes

• Vibrant solid orange coloration covering entire body

• Males develop distinctive sword-like tail extension

• Breed readily in home aquariums

• Bright and cheerful addition to community tanks