Our Guide To Keeping Mountain Swordtail Fish
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Xiphophorus nezahualcoyotl
- Common name: Mountain Swordtail
- Family: Poeciliidae
- Origin: Central America
- Adult length: 5-6 cm
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
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Tank Setup:
- Mountain Swordtails prefer a tank with plenty of swimming space and hiding places. A minimum tank size of 40 litres is recommended for a small group of these fish.
- Provide plants and decorations for hiding and breeding, as well as open areas for swimming.
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Water Parameters:
- Mountain Swordtails thrive in slightly alkaline to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.0.
- Keep the water temperature between 22 to 26°C (72 to 79°F).
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- A moderate water flow is suitable for Mountain Swordtails, so choose a filter that provides gentle to moderate flow.
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Diet:
- Mountain Swordtails are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food as a staple.
- Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia to provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet.
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Tank mates:
- Mountain Swordtails are peaceful community fish and can be kept with other peaceful fish species of similar size.
- They are compatible with other livebearers, tetras, rasboras, and peaceful bottom-dwellers like Corydoras catfish.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Mountain Swordtails are active swimmers and can be kept in a community tank with other peaceful fish species.
- They may exhibit some aggression towards conspecifics or other livebearers if the tank is overcrowded, so ensure adequate space and hiding places.