Swordtails – Pineapple Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii) 5cm

Pineapple Swordtail – Bright Yellow Glow With Classic Swordtail Energy!

Pineapple Swordtail bring warm yellow-orange tones and lively activity to freshwater community aquariums. These popular Xiphophorus hellerii variants feature the signature male sword extension and thrive when keepers provide ample swimming space. Aquarists enjoy watching Pineapple Swordtail school loosely and interact peacefully in well-planted setups. Their hardy nature and ease of care make them ideal for beginners and experienced hobbyists alike.

Size and Lifespan

Grow steadily and reach a respectable adult length within the first year. Males often develop longer swords than females. Consistent water quality and balanced nutrition help them stay active. Many live 3–5 years with attentive care in suitable conditions.

Ideal Tank Setup

Select a spacious aquarium of at least 80 litres so Pineapple Swordtail swim freely and display natural behaviour. Cover the tank securely because these active fish jump readily. To replicate its natural habitat, plant densely with hardy species for cover, add open swimming areas in the middle, include smooth rocks and driftwood for resting spots, and maintain good filtration with regular partial water changes.

Compatible Tank Mates

Coexist well with other peaceful community fish of similar size and temperament. Males may show mild aggression toward each other, so provide enough space. Suitable tank mates include guppies, platies, mollies, small tetras, rasboras, danios, rainbows, gouramis, bristlenose plecos, and scavenger catfish. Avoid very small fry-eating species or aggressive tank mates.

Diet and Feeding

Feed a varied omnivorous diet to support health and colour intensity. High-quality flake or pellet foods form the daily staple. Supplement regularly with frozen or freeze-dried bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex, and occasional algae-based items. Offer small portions 2–3 times daily, only what they consume quickly to prevent waste buildup.

Breeding and Behaviour of Pineapple Swordtail

Swim actively throughout the tank and school loosely in groups. Males court females with fin displays and chase mildly during breeding periods. As livebearers, females give birth to up to 80 fry after a gestation of about 28 days. Provide dense floating plants or a separate breeding area to protect fry from adults.

Species Overview

• Species – Xiphophorus hellerii
• Common Name – Pineapple Swordtail
• Origin – Mexico, Central America
• Diet – Omnivorous
• pH Range – 7 – 8.3
• Temperature – 16°C – 29°C
• Breed Type – Livebearer
• Current Size – 5 cm
• Max Size – Approximately 12 cm
• Tank Size – Minimum 80 L for a small group

FAQs about Pineapple Swordtail

What size tank is ideal for Pineapple Swordtail?
A minimum 80-litre aquarium provides room for swimming and reduces stress in groups.

Can they live with other fish?
Yes, they do well with peaceful community species of similar size, such as guppies and tetras.

How often should I feed them?
Offer food 2–3 times daily in small amounts they finish quickly to maintain water quality.

Do they need to be in groups?
Keep at least 4–6 together (more females than males) for natural social behaviour.

How long do they live?
With good care, commonly reach 3–5 years in the aquarium.

Add a Pineapple Swordtail to Your Aquarium Today!