Can Cherry Barb Live With Swordtail?
Cherry Barb and Swordtail are compatible. Temperature overlap 73–81°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Cherry Barb | Swordtail | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–81°F | 72–82°F | 73–81°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7 | 7–8.4 | 7–7 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 2" | 5.5" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 10 gal | 20 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Cherry Barb + Swordtail
To keep Cherry Barb and Swordtail together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Cherry Barb should be kept in a school of 6+. Swordtail should be kept in a school of 3+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Cherry Barb
Puntius titteya
Cherry barbs are one of the most peaceful barb species, making them ideal for community tanks. Males develop a deep cherry-red coloration when mature and in breeding condition, while females remain more subdued with brown-pink tones. Unlike their more boisterous relatives like tiger barbs, cherry barbs are gentle, shy, and compatible with even the most delicate tank mates.
Full care guide →Swordtail
Xiphophorus hellerii
Swordtails are hardy, colorful livebearers named for the distinctive elongated lower tail fin (the 'sword') found on males. They come in many color varieties including red, pineapple, marigold, and tuxedo. Larger than guppies but just as easy to care for, swordtails are excellent community fish that prefer hard, alkaline water.
Full care guide →