Can Swordtail Live With Firemouth Cichlid?
Swordtail and Firemouth Cichlid are compatible. Temperature overlap 75–82°F.
Conditions: Minimum 30 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Swordtail | Firemouth Cichlid | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 70–82°F | 73–86°F | 75–82°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 7–8 | 6.5–7.5 | 7–8 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi-aggressive | Monitor ⚠ |
| Max Size | 5.5" | 6.7" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 20 gal | 53 gal | 30 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Swordtail + Firemouth Cichlid
To keep Swordtail and Firemouth Cichlid together, you need at minimum a 30 gallon tank. Swordtail should be kept in a school of 4+. Firemouth Cichlid 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
The Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii) is a beginner freshwater species known for its red-orange, green coloration. Males have elongated sword-like tail. Mid to Top.
Full care guide →Firemouth Cichlid
Thorichthys meeki
The Firemouth Cichlid (Thorichthys meeki) is a intermediate freshwater species known for its gray-blue, red throat/belly coloration. Red throat display when threatened. Mid to Bottom.
Full care guide →