Species profile
High Fin Swordtail
Xiphophorus hellerii
Peaceful
Moderate care
140 L minimum aquarium
7–12 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 3
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
High-fin is a domestic form, not a formal variety. Minimum length raised to reflect the species' active swimming behaviour.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
20–26 °C
pH
7–8.3
GH
10–30 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 3
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Fry
Bioload factor
1.5
Generally peaceful but active; male rivalry and persistent courtship require space and appropriate sex ratios.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
140 L
Minimum footprint
90 × 35 cm
Accepted scientific name
Xiphophorus hellerii
Alternative names
Hi-fin Swordtail, High-fin Swordtail
Native range
Captive-bred high-fin form derived from Xiphophorus hellerii; the wild species is native to Atlantic-slope Central America.
Natural habitat
Active livebearer requiring a long, well-oxygenated aquarium with open swimming space and plant cover.
Diet & feeding
Quality dry foods with substantial plant matter/algae plus frozen/live invertebrates.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males develop a gonopodium and the characteristic caudal 'sword'; females are larger-bodied.
Breeding
Livebearer; females can store sperm and produce successive broods. Provide refuge for fry if rearing them.