Can Swordtail Live With Denison Barb?
Swordtail and Denison Barb are compatible. Temperature overlap 72–77°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 55 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Swordtail | Denison Barb | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 60–77°F | 72–77°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 7–8.4 | 6.5–7.8 | 7–7.8 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 5.5" | 6" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 20 gal | 55 gal | 55 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Swordtail + Denison Barb
To keep Swordtail and Denison Barb together, you need at minimum a 55 gallon tank. Swordtail should be kept in a school of 3+. Denison Barb should be kept in a school of 6+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
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 →Denison Barb
Sahyadria denisonii
The Denison Barb (Sahyadria denisonii) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish growing to 6 inches. Peaceful temperament, minimum 55 gallon tank.
Full care guide →