Can Swordtail Live With Skunk Cleaner Shrimp?
Cannot coexist — Swordtail is freshwater, Skunk Cleaner Shrimp is saltwater.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Swordtail | Skunk Cleaner Shrimp | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 75–82°F | 75–82°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 7–8.4 | 8.1–8.4 | 8.1–8.4 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 5.5" | 3" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 20 gal | 20 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | beginner | — |
Species Profiles
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 →Skunk Cleaner Shrimp
Lysmata amboinensis
Skunk cleaner shrimp are one of the most useful invertebrates in reef tanks. They operate a 'cleaning station' where fish line up to have parasites, dead skin, and debris removed from their bodies and gills. This natural cleaning service helps keep fish healthy and disease-free. They are also strikingly beautiful with their red-and-white striped body and long white antennae.
Full care guide →