Sanke Koi Marble Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii)

Description

Sanke Koi Marble Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii)

Inspired by the striking patterns of Japanese Koi, the Sanke Koi Marble Swordtail combines brilliant white, orange-red and black markings with the graceful sword-like tail that has made Swordtails one of the world's most popular livebearers. Hardy, active and full of personality, this stunning variety is a standout in any freshwater community aquarium.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific name: Xiphophorus hellerii
  • Common name: Sanke Koi Marble Swordtail
  • Adult size: 10–12 cm (including the male's sword)
  • Tank size: 75L+ recommended
  • Difficulty: 🟒 Easy
  • Temperament: Peaceful and active
  • Best kept: Groups with more females than males

Is this for you?

βœ”οΈ Perfect if:

  • You love vibrant Koi-inspired colour patterns.
  • You're looking for hardy community fish.
  • You enjoy active livebearers with plenty of personality.
  • You have a planted aquarium with open swimming space.

❌ Avoid if:

  • You keep aggressive or predatory fish.
  • You have a very small aquarium.
  • You don't want fish that may breed regularly.
  • You keep fin-nipping species.

Why choose Sanke Koi Marble Swordtails?

The Sanke Koi Marble Swordtail is a selectively bred variety inspired by the classic Japanese Sanke Koi pattern. Each fish displays a unique combination of crisp white, vibrant orange-red and contrasting black markings, meaning no two individuals are exactly alike.

Males develop the iconic elongated "sword" extension on the lower lobe of the tail, while females grow larger and display a fuller body shape. These energetic fish constantly explore the aquarium and quickly become confident, often greeting their keeper at feeding time.

Their hardy nature, peaceful temperament and striking appearance make them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists looking to add colour and movement to a community aquarium.

Benefits

  • Beautiful Koi-inspired marble colouration
  • Every fish has a unique pattern
  • Hardy and beginner friendly
  • Peaceful community fish
  • Active swimmers with bold personalities
  • Easy to breed in suitable conditions

Care made simple

  • Temperature: 22–28Β°C
  • pH: 7.0–8.2
  • Diet: Quality flakes, pellets, frozen foods and vegetable-based foods
  • Water: Clean, stable and well-filtered with gentle to moderate flow
  • Setup: Planted aquarium with open swimming areas and hardy plants
  • Keep more females than males to reduce breeding-related stress.
  • Perform regular water changes to maintain excellent water quality.

Pairs perfectly with

  • Platies
  • Mollies
  • Corydoras
  • Honey Gouramis
  • Bristlenose Catfish
NTA Insight:
The colours of Sanke Koi Marble Swordtails often continue to develop as they mature. Juveniles may display lighter patterns that gradually become richer and more defined over time. A high-quality diet combined with good lighting and excellent water quality helps these beautiful fish display their full potential.

FAQ

How big do Sanke Koi Marble Swordtails grow?

Adults typically reach 10–12 cm, with males appearing longer due to their distinctive sword extension.

Are they suitable for beginners?

Yes. Swordtails are hardy, adaptable and among the easiest livebearers to care for, making them an excellent choice for new fishkeepers.

Will every fish have the same colour pattern?

No. Each Sanke Koi Marble Swordtail has its own unique combination of white, orange-red and black markings, making every individual distinctive.

Do Swordtails breed easily?

Yes. Like other livebearers, healthy males and females will readily breed in suitable aquarium conditions.

Can they live in a community aquarium?

Absolutely. They are peaceful, active fish that coexist well with many other freshwater community species of similar size and temperament.

Sanke Koi Marble Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii)

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$10.00


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    Description

    Sanke Koi Marble Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii)

    Inspired by the striking patterns of Japanese Koi, the Sanke Koi Marble Swordtail combines brilliant white, orange-red and black markings with the graceful sword-like tail that has made Swordtails one of the world's most popular livebearers. Hardy, active and full of personality, this stunning variety is a standout in any freshwater community aquarium.

    Quick Facts

    • Scientific name: Xiphophorus hellerii
    • Common name: Sanke Koi Marble Swordtail
    • Adult size: 10–12 cm (including the male's sword)
    • Tank size: 75L+ recommended
    • Difficulty: 🟒 Easy
    • Temperament: Peaceful and active
    • Best kept: Groups with more females than males

    Is this for you?

    βœ”οΈ Perfect if:

    • You love vibrant Koi-inspired colour patterns.
    • You're looking for hardy community fish.
    • You enjoy active livebearers with plenty of personality.
    • You have a planted aquarium with open swimming space.

    ❌ Avoid if:

    • You keep aggressive or predatory fish.
    • You have a very small aquarium.
    • You don't want fish that may breed regularly.
    • You keep fin-nipping species.

    Why choose Sanke Koi Marble Swordtails?

    The Sanke Koi Marble Swordtail is a selectively bred variety inspired by the classic Japanese Sanke Koi pattern. Each fish displays a unique combination of crisp white, vibrant orange-red and contrasting black markings, meaning no two individuals are exactly alike.

    Males develop the iconic elongated "sword" extension on the lower lobe of the tail, while females grow larger and display a fuller body shape. These energetic fish constantly explore the aquarium and quickly become confident, often greeting their keeper at feeding time.

    Their hardy nature, peaceful temperament and striking appearance make them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists looking to add colour and movement to a community aquarium.

    Benefits

    • Beautiful Koi-inspired marble colouration
    • Every fish has a unique pattern
    • Hardy and beginner friendly
    • Peaceful community fish
    • Active swimmers with bold personalities
    • Easy to breed in suitable conditions

    Care made simple

    • Temperature: 22–28Β°C
    • pH: 7.0–8.2
    • Diet: Quality flakes, pellets, frozen foods and vegetable-based foods
    • Water: Clean, stable and well-filtered with gentle to moderate flow
    • Setup: Planted aquarium with open swimming areas and hardy plants
    • Keep more females than males to reduce breeding-related stress.
    • Perform regular water changes to maintain excellent water quality.

    Pairs perfectly with

    • Platies
    • Mollies
    • Corydoras
    • Honey Gouramis
    • Bristlenose Catfish
    NTA Insight:
    The colours of Sanke Koi Marble Swordtails often continue to develop as they mature. Juveniles may display lighter patterns that gradually become richer and more defined over time. A high-quality diet combined with good lighting and excellent water quality helps these beautiful fish display their full potential.

    FAQ

    How big do Sanke Koi Marble Swordtails grow?

    Adults typically reach 10–12 cm, with males appearing longer due to their distinctive sword extension.

    Are they suitable for beginners?

    Yes. Swordtails are hardy, adaptable and among the easiest livebearers to care for, making them an excellent choice for new fishkeepers.

    Will every fish have the same colour pattern?

    No. Each Sanke Koi Marble Swordtail has its own unique combination of white, orange-red and black markings, making every individual distinctive.

    Do Swordtails breed easily?

    Yes. Like other livebearers, healthy males and females will readily breed in suitable aquarium conditions.

    Can they live in a community aquarium?

    Absolutely. They are peaceful, active fish that coexist well with many other freshwater community species of similar size and temperament.

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Why do livestock prices sometimes change?

    Unlike manufactured products, fish and shrimp continue to grow and develop over time. Their value changes as they increase in size, develop colour, or become breeding pairs.

    Our prices are based on the current size, quality and availability of each specimen. While pricing often remains stable for around 3–4 months, it may be updated at any time to reflect these changes.

    We always aim to offer healthy, high-quality livestock at fair and competitive prices.

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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