Vampire Swordtail Juvenile

The Vampire Swordtail is a striking freshwater livebearer known for its intense crimson-red body and dramatic elongated “sword” tail extension in males. Active, hardy, and full of personality, this eye-catching fish makes a bold centerpiece in community aquariums.

Temperament: Peaceful to semi-active
Difficulty Level: Easy (Great for beginners)
Adult Size: 4–5 inches (males slightly smaller but with sword extension)
Lifespan: 3–5 years
Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum
Temperature: 72–82°F
pH: 7.0–8.0
Water Hardness: Moderate to hard

✔ Best kept in groups (1 male to multiple females recommended)
✔ Provide open swimming space
✔ Add plants for cover
✔ Moderate filtration preferred
✔ Secure lid recommended (active swimmers)

Males may display toward each other but are generally peaceful in well-sized tanks.

 Food

Vampire Swordtails are omnivores and easy feeders:

• High-quality flakes

• Pellets

• Frozen or live brine shrimp

• Bloodworms

• Vegetable-based foods (spirulina flakes, blanched zucchini)

Feed small portions 1–2 times daily.

Fun Facts

• Only males develop the long “sword” tail extension.
• They are livebearers — females give birth to free-swimming fry.
• Their red coloration intensifies with high-quality diet and lighting.
• Swordtails are one of the most popular and hardy livebearer species.