Koi Swordtail

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Variety selected in breeding facilities (the original strain comes from Central America). Does not exist in nature.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Koi Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii). Poeciliid. Morphology identical to the classic swordtail, with the addition of a specific chromatic pattern resembling Koi carps.

Social Behavior: Lively and dominant. Alpha males are tireless: they persecute females to mate and bully subordinate males.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: "Koi" Pattern. The body is usually pearly white or transparent, with large red or orange spots on the head and body, and occasionally black spots (if Tricolor Koi). Males with gonopodium and "sword".

Aquarium Setup: River Aquarium (Minimum 100 cm / 40 inches). They need a lot of space for horizontal free swimming. Mandatory cover: they are excellent jumpers.

Diet and Feeding: Voracious omnivore. Extremely adaptable. Readily eats flake food, blanched vegetables, spirulina and bloodworms.

Water Quality: Limestone lovers. Hard and alkaline waters (GH 12-30) are essential. They perfectly tolerate the addition of coarse salt.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Community but bulky. Perfect with Corydoras, Ancistrus and large Tetras. Always keep 1 male to 3 females to disperse stress.

Aquarium Reproduction: Fry Factory. Ovoviviparous. The female gives birth to dozens of live fry. They are cannibals and will devour their own children without dense hiding places.

Risks and Diseases: Genetic selection. Due to targeted selection for color, this variant can be slightly more delicate than the original wild strain.