Lyretail Black Swordtail Male

The Lyretail Black Swordtail is one of the most elegant swordtail varieties, combining the lyretail mutation — which produces symmetrical elongation of both the upper and lower caudal rays — with an all-black body colour for a strikingly dramatic fish. Unlike the standard swordtail, both caudal lobes extend, creating a symmetrical lyre shape.

The all-black colouration is achieved through intensive selective breeding for maximum melanin expression. This fish is best displayed against light substrates and bright plant backgrounds where its silhouette is most visible.

A somewhat more demanding variety due to the combined selection pressure of lyretail and all-black genetics, but manageable for intermediate hobbyists maintaining stable water quality.

Water: 20–27 °C, pH 7.0–8.0, GH 10–20; stable parameters prevent colour fade to grey. Tank: 100 L minimum; light substrate strongly recommended; avoid fin-nipping species. Feeding: Quality flake, colour pellets; 2–3 meals daily. Breeding: Livebearer; lyretail dominant; black colouration heritable but can fade under poor conditions. Compatibility: Peaceful; avoid nippy species that target the lyretail extensions.