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 | 72–82°F | 75–86°F | 75–82°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 7–8.4 | 6.5–8 | 7–8 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi-aggressive | Monitor ⚠ |
| Max Size | 5.5" | 6" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 20 gal | 30 gal | 30 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | beginner | — |
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 3+. 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 →Firemouth Cichlid
Thorichthys meeki
Firemouth cichlids are one of the most beginner-friendly Central American cichlids. Named for their striking red/orange coloration on the throat and belly, they are less aggressive than most cichlids of their size. When threatened, they flare their gill covers to display their bright red throat — a bluffing display that is far more bark than bite.
Full care guide →