Platinum Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii var.)

The Platinum Swordtail is a selectively bred color variety of Xiphophorus hellerii developed for uniformly white to platinum-silver body coloration. X. hellerii is native to the Atlantic slope river systems of Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize, where wild-type males display green body coloration with a red or yellow horizontal stripe. Selective breeding has produced dozens of color varieties, the Platinum being one of the cleanest and most elegant.

Male Platinum Swordtails display the characteristic dramatically elongated lower caudal fin ray — the 'sword' — typically white, silver, or with a pale yellow or orange border, complementing the platinum body. Females lack the sword and are larger and rounder. The clean white coloration makes fin shape and body profile particularly prominent in male display.

Swordtails are active, athletic livebearers that are strong swimmers and can jump surprisingly high. Like all X. hellerii, they reproduce by live birth — females produce large broods of 20–100+ fully formed fry after 4–6 weeks gestation. They are prolific and easy to breed, with minimal required intervention.

The Platinum Swordtail's clean coloration makes it stand out dramatically in planted aquariums against green vegetation — a popular choice for aquarists seeking striking contrast fish.

Platinum Swordtails thrive in moderately hard, neutral to alkaline water: pH 7.0–8.5, hardness 10–25 dGH, and temperatures 22–28°C. They are adaptable within this range and hardy fish that tolerate standard community tank conditions well.

A minimum 80-liter aquarium with horizontal swimming space suits a small group. Dense plantings provide female refuge and fry cover. Good filtration, moderate current, and a secure lid (they jump readily) complete the setup.

Feed quality flake food, pellets, vegetable flakes, spirulina, daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Including plant-based foods reduces nibbling on aquatic plants.

Compatible with other livebearers, corydoras, medium tetras, barbs, and most peaceful community fish. Maintain 2–3 females per male. Males may occasionally be nippy toward the sword fins of other males, or be targeted by fin-nipping species.

Breeding is prolific. Provide plant cover for fry or a separate breeding tank. Regular water changes of 25–30% weekly maintain water quality.