What size tank do swordtails need?
At least 30 gallons (114 liters) for a group of 3. The smallest standard tank that works is the 29 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish in a proper group, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Xiphophorus hellerii.
How many swordtails in each tank size?
This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if swordtails are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.
| Tank | How many swordtails |
|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small |
| 10 gallon | Too small |
| 20 gallon long | Too small |
| 29 gallon | 3 |
| 40 gallon breeder | up to 4 |
| 55 gallon | up to 6 |
| 75 gallon | up to 9 |
| 125 gallon | up to 15 |
Check swordtails against your own tank and other fish
Good to know
- Keep at least 3. In smaller numbers they are stressed, or one gets picked on.
- This is a jumper. Use a lid with no gaps.
Tank mates for swordtails
These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.
- Bolivian ram
- Bristlenose pleco
- Upside-down catfish
- Zebra danio
- Bronze corydoras
- Peppered corydoras
- Clown pleco
- Pearl gourami
Poor matches
- Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
- Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and will bully or kill peaceful fish such as swordtail.
- Cherry shrimp: Swordtail (about 5 in) can eat cherry shrimp (about 1.2 in).
Questions and answers
What size tank do swordtails need?
At least 30 gallons (114 liters) for a group of 3. The smallest standard tank that works is the 29 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.
How many swordtails should be kept together?
At least 3. Swordtails are social animals and only behave naturally in a group. More is better if the tank has room.
Can swordtails live in a 10 gallon tank?
No. Swordtail needs at least 30 gallons (114 liters).
What temperature do swordtails need?
70–81 °F (21–27 °C), with a pH of 7–8.3. A heater is only needed if your room gets cold.
Can swordtails live with a betta?
Usually, yes, in a tank of 30 gallons (114 liters) or more. They like the same water: 75–81 °F (24–27 °C). Every betta has its own temper, so watch closely for the first week and have a spare tank ready.
More fish
Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.