Swordtail Guppies are named for the elongated extension on their lower tail fin, resembling a sword. They come in various colors and patterns, and their sword adds an interesting visual element.
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Swordtail Guppies are named for the elongated extension on their lower tail fin, resembling a sword. They come in various colors and patterns, and their sword adds an interesting visual element.
The Swordtail Guppy is instantly recognizable by the elongated, pointed extension of the lower lobe of its caudal (tail) fin, giving it a sword-like appearance. This extension can be solid-colored, patterned, or gradient, depending on the strain, and is most prominent in males. Their bodies can display a variety of colors, including reds, blues, greens, yellows, and metallic sheens, often combined with intricate tail patterns.
1-3 years
Omnivorous
The Swordtail Guppy combines the peaceful, hardy nature of traditional guppies with a unique, elegant tail shape that adds visual interest to any aquarium. Their active swimming and gentle temperament make them suitable for community setups, and their striking appearance draws attention in display tanks.
Beginner
10 gallons
6.8 – 7.8
Moderately hard to hard
22°C – 28°C (72°F – 82°F)
2.5 inches (excluding swordtail extension)
Compatible with peaceful community fish like tetras, rasboras, mollies, platys, Corydoras, and dwarf shrimp
Angelfish, Betta (male), Tiger Barbs, Oscars, Jack Dempsey, Cichlids, Gouramis, Mollies, Platies, Swordtails, Shrimp, Snails
Poecilia reticulata
Poeciliidae
Native to northern South America; selectively bred worldwide for unique tail extensions
Peaceful, schooling fish; best kept in groups of six or more
They require a balanced diet to maintain fin strength, coloration, and overall health. A staple of guppy-specific flakes or micro-pellets should be supplemented with protein-rich foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms at least twice per week. Vegetables like blanched spinach, peas, or cucumber provide fiber, aiding digestion and preventing constipation.
Livebearer – females give birth to free-swimming fry; prolific breeder with potential for rapid population growth
Swordtail Guppies breed readily, with females producing fry approximately every 4–6 weeks. Gestation lasts about 21–30 days, and brood size ranges from 20 to 60 fry. Males use their colorful sword extension to attract females. Fry are independent from birth but are vulnerable to predation from adults, so dense plant cover or breeding boxes are recommended for maximum survival.
Maintain stable, clean water with a pH between 6.8 and 7.8, moderate-to-high hardness, and temperatures between 22°C and 28°C. A gentle filter is ideal to avoid damaging the swordtail extension. Weekly water changes of 25–30% are essential for preventing nitrate buildup, which can dull coloration and reduce breeding activity.
Like other guppies, Swordtail Guppies are prone to fin rot, ich, velvet, and bacterial infections if kept in poor water conditions. Overcrowding can stress fish and increase disease risk. Avoid fin-nipping species that may damage the long swordtail fin extension.
Peaceful
Swordtail Guppies are active and social, spending much of their time mid-to-upper water column. They are peaceful toward other species but males may chase females during courtship. Their extended lower tail fin (the “sword”) is used for display and sometimes mild dominance gestures toward other males, but aggression remains minimal. They are curious fish that appreciate a mix of open swimming space and planted areas for security.
The Swordtail Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is a selectively bred variety that features an elongated lower tail lobe resembling a sword, inspired by the Swordtail fish (Xiphophorus hellerii). Native to South America in its wild form, the guppy has been bred extensively for ornamental purposes, and the swordtail trait is one of the more exotic variations. These guppies are peaceful, adaptable, and prolific breeders, making them ideal for aquarists of all experience levels. They do best in planted aquariums with gentle filtration and a mix of swimming space and hiding areas. With proper care, males can maintain strong, unbroken sword extensions, and females produce healthy broods regularly. Their flowing fins, varied coloration, and unique tail design make them both a conversation piece and a rewarding species to keep for hobbyists and breeders alike.