Description
Pineapple Swordtail (Xiphophorus helleri)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Xiphophorus helleri
Common Names: Pineapple Swordtail, Sunset Swordtail, Orange Swordtail
Family: Poeciliidae
Order: Cyprinodontiformes
Origin: Central America — native to Mexico, Belize, and Honduras (captive-bred worldwide)
Size: 10 – 12 cm (4 – 5 inches) including tail extension
Lifespan: 3 – 5 years
Tank Zone: Middle and upper levels
🌊 Water Parameters
Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)
pH: 7.0 – 8.2
Hardness: 10 – 30 dGH
TDS: 200 – 400 ppm
🐠 Characteristics
Body Shape: Slender and elongated, typical of swordtails.
Coloration: Striking orange-yellow body with a reddish-orange dorsal and tail fin, resembling the colors of a ripe pineapple.
Tail: Males feature a distinct sword-like lower tail extension.
Behavior: Peaceful, lively, and easy to care for.
Nature: Hardy fish suitable for both beginners and community setups.
Special Feature: The gradient color pattern gives it a vibrant tropical look.
🍽️ Diet
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Quality flakes, pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and spirulina-based foods.
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily in small portions.
Tip: Supplement with color-enhancing foods to maintain bright orange tones.
🛠️ Tank Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 80 liters (20 gallons) for a small group
Filtration: Moderate to strong; maintain clean, oxygenated water
Substrate: Fine gravel or sand
Decor: Add live or artificial plants, driftwood, and open swimming space
Lighting: Moderate lighting to highlight color vibrancy
Water Change: 25–30% weekly
👥 Social Behavior
Nature: Peaceful and social livebearer
Group Size: 1 male with 2–3 females preferred
Tank Mates: Guppies, Mollies, Platies, Tetras, Corydoras, and Rasboras
Avoid: Fin nippers or large aggressive species
Breeding: Livebearer — females give birth to fry every 4–6 weeks; provide plants for fry protection.
✅ Do’s
• Keep stable water conditions
• Provide space for swimming and hiding
• Use color foods for enhanced vibrancy
❌ Don’ts
• Avoid too many males in one tank
• Don’t keep with aggressive fish
• Avoid dirty or stagnant water
⭐ Quick Tip:
The Pineapple Swordtail is a bright, cheerful livebearer that adds tropical warmth to any aquarium. Its orange-yellow body and red fins make it one of the most eye-catching swordtail varieties, ideal for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
