The Koi Kohaku Swordtail is a variant of the wild Green Swordtail, having genetics from other Xiphophorus species to achieve different color patterns. Males usually have an elongated "sword" at the bottom of their tail- but some females can also develop one! It's easy to identify males by looking for gonopodiums in anal fin areas as they are used during fertilization when spawning.
Swordtails usually occupy the top level of water, but they may be found in mid and bottom levels as well. They're not afraid to jump so make sure you have a lid or canopy for your tank if one is available. They don't eat plants, which makes them good with other peaceful fish (provided that the other fish are not known to nip at their long tails). Adult dwarf shrimp can also co-exist provided they're larger than what some swordtails consider prey: smaller invertebrates can make good tankmates too! Swordtail shoals should focus more on females rather than males since mature males will always pursue females for breeding purposes.
The Koi Kohaku Swordtail will thrive when given a variety of meaty foods. High-quality flrack food, pellets and frozen or freeze-dried tubifex and bloodworms are all readily accepted by the Koi Kohaku Swordtail.
What we like about this fish:
- Uncommon variety with deluxe coloration
- Peaceful disposition with other fish and peaceful invertebrates
- Hardy and adaptable, as well as undemanding
RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:
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Temperature: 64° - 82.4° F (16° - 28° C)
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pH: 7.0 - 8.0
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KH: 10 - 30 dKH
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Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
