Swordtail - Gold wag

Other Breeds

Keeshond   |   Palomino   |   Pig – Pot Bellied   |  

Alternative Name

Scientific Name: Xiphophorus helleri

Basic Info

The Gold Wag Swordtails get their name from the shape of their tail fin. The lower part of the Gold Wag Swordtail's tail fin is elongated and has the appearance of a sword. Gold Wag Swordtails have black rays in their fins, as well as black on their lips. The black is contrasted with an intense gold colored body. At maturity, Gold Wag Swordtails will reach a size of two to four inches. The elongated, sword shaped tail fin will be less prominent on females, and females will tend to be larger than males. Gold Wag Swordtails have a life span of four years.

Health

Gold Wag Swordtails are an easy fish to care for. They are not picky eaters, and can be fed flake foods regularly. They should be given live foods, such as bloodworms, mosquito larvae, glass worms and tubifex worms occasionally as a treat. Their water temperature should be in a range between 64 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit, and the water should be hard and slightly alkaline, with a pH between seven and eight. They will also eat algae that grow in their tank. Gold Wags are susceptible to Fin Rot and Mouth Fungus. Breeding Gold Wag Swordtails are not difficult to breed. Gold Wag Swordtails are livebearers, and when breeding, they will produce up to 80 fry. Females should be separated before giving birth. Once born, the fry should be separated from the mother, as Gold Wags will eat them. They should be fed powdered flake foods. Aquariums with fry in them should have dense plant life, to give the fry places to hide. A sponge filter should also be used so the fry do not get sucked up.

Habitat

Fresh water fish

Behavior

Gold Wag Swordtails make great community fish. They are a small size, hardy and generally a peaceful fish. Their exotic and brightly colored appearance makes them a highly attractive fish for any aquarium. Gold Wag Swordtails are a peaceful, non-aggressive fish. However, if more than one mail is kept with one female, the males will become aggressive towards each other. This should be avoided, if possible. Otherwise, they make great community fish. Gold Wag Swordtails should not be put into tanks with fish that like to nip at fins, like Tiger Barbs. Their large fins become great targets for these fish. Their tanks can be small to large sized, with light to moderate rock and plant decorations. The Gold Wag Swordtails should have a few hiding places, but they also need plenty of space to swim.

Origin

Central America

History

Gold Wag Swordtails, or Xiphorphorus helleri, are originally from Central America, including Mexico, Honduras and Guatemala. They were brought to Europe, however, where they were bred to make new varieties.

Common Foods

N/A