Pygmy Swordtail (Xiphophorus pygmaeus)

Pygmy Swordtail

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Pygmy Swordtail

Xiphophorus pygmaeus

Difficulty

Moderate

Min. Tank Size

38 Litres (10 US G.)

Size

3-4 cm (1.2-1.6")

sg

Freshwater

pH

7.2 - 7.8

Temp.

24 -28 °C (75.2-82.4°F)

Water Hardness

5-18 °d

Stocking Ratio

1:3 M:F

Availability

Rare

Diet

Omnivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Live Foods

Life Span

3-6 years

Habitat

Mexico

Family

Poeciliidae

Additional names

Pygmy Swordtail, Slender Pygmy Swordtail, Dwarf Swordtail

Sexing

Males will possess a distinctive gonopodium and the elongated "sword" on the caudal fin. Females will be more full in the belly.

Tank compatibility

Due to this fish's tiny size it's best kept either in a species tank or with other peaceful fish of similar size such as Corydoras habrosus. As with all livebearers, it's best to keep one male per two-three females at least.

Diet

Will accept most small pellet and flake foods as well as small live foods such as brine shrimp.

Feeding regime

Feed once or twice a day.

Environment specifics

Does best in a well filtered mature tank with dense planting and hiding places. Thick plants like java moss will provide secure hiding places for fry.

Like most livebearers, will do best in mildly alkaline, lightly brackish water.

Behaviour

An active peaceful livebearer.

Identification

A small slender fish with three darker lateral lines, one along the lateral line, one along the spine and one from the base of the caudal fin to the anal fin. The fins are mostly translucent and the body has hints of yellow which varies in vibrancy.

External links

• Fishbase (Mirrors:
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  )

• Aquatic Community