Montezuma Swordtail (Xiphophorus montizumae)

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Montezuma Swordtail

Montezumaeswordtail-3721.jpg
Montezuma Swordtail

Xiphophorus montizumae

76 Litres (20 US G.)

6.4-7.6cm (2.5-3 ")

sg

Freshwater

pH

7.0 - 7.8

21.1-25°C (70 -77 °F)

10-15 °d

1:3 M:F

Omnivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Live Foods

3-5 years

Family

Poeciliidae

This animal is available captive bred



Additional names

Montezuma Swordtail

Additional scientific names

Montezuma helleri, Xiphophorus montezuma


Sexing[edit]

Males have an exceptionally long "sword" on their tail. Females have a fan shaped anal fin and males have a stick shaped anal fin. They produce up to 50 live fry every 4-8 weeks.


Tank compatibility[edit]

This fish is compatible with other similar sized peaceful community fish, although males will display to other Swordtail males. Do not keep with fin-nippers such as Serpae Tetras or Tiger Barbs.


Diet[edit]

Will accept a variety of foods including pellets, flake and live/frozen food.


Feeding regime[edit]

Feed once or twice a day.


Environment specifics[edit]

Requires a mature spacious tank which should be well planted with some open swimming space. A soft current is desirable.


Behaviour[edit]

An active fish which is happiest in groups (more females than males) and a prolific spawner. Should generally be peaceful although males will display to one another and may do the same to other Swordtail species.


Identification[edit]

Males have extremely long "swords" in comparison to other species of swordtails. They generally have pale orange bodies with darker orange striping.

Pictures[edit]

External links[edit]