Can Kuhli Loach Live With Swordtail?
Kuhli Loach and Swordtail are compatible. Temperature overlap 73–82°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Kuhli Loach | Swordtail | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–86°F | 72–82°F | 73–82°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 5.5–7 | 7–8.4 | 7–7 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 4" | 5.5" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 15 gal | 20 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Kuhli Loach + Swordtail
To keep Kuhli Loach and Swordtail together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Kuhli Loach 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
Kuhli Loach
Pangio kuhlii
Kuhli loaches are eel-shaped, nocturnal bottom dwellers with striking black and orange/yellow banding. They are shy, peaceful, and love to burrow in sand and hide in tight spaces during the day. Despite their snake-like appearance, they are completely harmless community fish that become much more active and visible when kept in groups.
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 →