Super Red Broccoli swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii )

Super Red Broccoli Swordtail — A Rare and Stunning Livebearer Gem

Vibrant, rare, and truly eye-catching, the Super Red Broccoli Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii) is a premium selectively bred variety that stands apart from the crowd. Named for its intensely saturated red colouration and the distinctive ruffled, broccoli-like fin texture, this is a collector’s swordtail — a fish that turns heads and sparks conversation in any aquarium.

The male’s elongated sword-like tail extension, combined with the deep crimson body and uniquely textured fins, makes this one of the most visually dramatic livebearers available. Sold as a pair, these fish are ready to settle in and potentially reward you with fry in a well-maintained setup.

Care at a Glance

• Common Name: Super Red Broccoli Swordtail
• Scientific Name: Xiphophorus hellerii
• Origin: Selectively bred; wild type from Central America
• Adult Size: Up to 5 inches (12 cm) including sword extension
• pH: 6.5 – 7.2
• General Hardness (GH): 3 – 10
• Carbonate Hardness (KH): 1 – 2
• TDS: 100 – 300
• Temperature: 18 – 25°C (64 – 78°F)
• Temperament: Peaceful; males may spar with other male swordtails
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Tank & Setup Tips

Swordtails are active swimmers that appreciate a spacious tank of at least 30 gallons with plenty of open swimming space. Dense planting along the sides and back provides cover and security, while open midwater space lets the male’s sword and fins be fully appreciated. A tight-fitting lid is recommended — swordtails are known jumpers.

They prefer slightly hard, neutral to mildly acidic water and are tolerant of a wide temperature range, making them adaptable to many setups. Good filtration and regular water changes keep them at their vibrant best.

Feeding

Omnivorous and easy to feed. Accept high-quality flakes, pellets, and frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Including some plant-based foods (spirulina flakes, blanched vegetables) supports their health and enhances red colouration. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.

Compatible Tank Mates

Excellent community fish. Ideal tank mates include other livebearers (platies, mollies, guppies), peaceful tetras, corydoras, rasboras, and gouramis. Avoid housing multiple male swordtails together in smaller tanks to prevent sparring.

Breeding

Livebearers that breed readily in captivity. Females give birth to free-swimming fry every 4–6 weeks. Provide floating plants or a breeding box to give fry the best chance of survival in a community setup.

📸 Photos are for reference only. Actual fish may vary slightly in colour and pattern — each one is uniquely beautiful!