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.