Description
Overview
The Pink Comet Swordtail is a stunning and unique variant of the popular Swordtail fish (Xiphophorus hellerii). Known for its elongated, sword-like tail and vibrant pink coloration, this active freshwater fish makes a fantastic addition to community aquariums. With its hardy nature and adaptable temperament, the Pink Comet Swordtail is a great choice for both beginner and experienced fish keepers.
Origin
Native to Central America, particularly Mexico, Honduras, and Belize, Swordtails are naturally found in fast-flowing rivers, streams, and lakes. Through selective breeding, the Pink Comet variant has been developed to showcase its beautiful pink hues while retaining the characteristic sword-like tail of the species.
Feeding
Pink Comet Swordtails are omnivores and require a balanced diet of both plant-based and protein-rich foods. They thrive on:
High-quality flake or pellet food
Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms
Blanched vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and peas for fibre
Providing a varied diet ensures vibrant coloration and overall good health.
Tank Mates
Pink Comet Swordtails are generally peaceful and social, making them excellent additions to community tanks. Ideal tank mates include:
Other Swordtails
Platies
Mollies
Guppies
Tetras
Corydoras catfish
Peaceful dwarf cichlids (such as Apistogramma)
Avoid keeping them with fin-nipping or highly aggressive species such as some larger cichlids or barbs.
Aggression & Behavior
While mostly peaceful, male Swordtails can display aggression towards each other, especially in smaller tanks or if competing for mates. It’s best to maintain a higher ratio of females to males (at least 2-3 females per male) to reduce aggression. Providing ample swimming space and hiding spots with plants and decorations helps mitigate territorial disputes.
Experience Level
Beginner-friendly. The Pink Comet Swordtail is an easy-to-care-for species, making it ideal for newcomers to the aquarium hobby.
Water Parameters
To keep your Pink Comet Swordtail healthy, maintain the following water conditions:
Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
pH Level: 7.0-8.3
Water Hardness: 10-25 dGH
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a small group, as they are active swimmers
Regular water changes (25-30% weekly) and a good filtration system are recommended to maintain optimal water quality.
Conclusion
The Pink Comet Swordtail is a hardy, visually striking, and easy-to-care-for fish that adds colour and activity to a freshwater aquarium. With the right care, proper diet, and suitable tank mates, they can thrive and bring joy to fish keepers of all levels.
