Our Guide To Keeping Pygmy Swordtail Fish
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Xiphophorus pygmaeus
- Common name: Pygmy Swordtail
- Family: Poeciliidae
- Origin: Mexico, specifically the Rio Huichihuayan basin
- Adult length: 3-4 cm
- Lifespan: 2 to 3 years
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Tank Setup:
- Pygmy Swordtails prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots. A minimum tank size of 40L is recommended for a small group of these fish.
- Provide live plants like Java Moss, Anubias, and Vallisneria, as well as floating plants to create shaded areas and reduce light intensity.
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Water Parameters:
- Pygmy Swordtails thrive in slightly alkaline water conditions with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.0.
- Keep the water temperature between 22 to 28°C (72 to 82°F).
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- A gentle water flow is suitable for these fish, so choose a filter that provides a low to moderate flow.
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Diet:
- Pygmy 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 brine shrimp, daphnia, and mosquito larvae to provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet.
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Tank mates:
- Pygmy Swordtails are peaceful fish and can be kept with other small, non-aggressive species. Suitable tank mates include other small livebearers, tetras, and peaceful dwarf cichlids.
- Avoid housing them with larger, more aggressive fish that may view them as prey.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Pygmy Swordtails are active and social fish that enjoy swimming in groups. They exhibit shoaling behavior and should be kept in groups of at least six to ensure they feel secure.
- They are generally peaceful and can be kept in a community tank with other non-aggressive fish species.
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