Can Swordtail Live With Zebra Danio?
Swordtail and Zebra Danio are compatible. Temperature overlap 72–77°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Swordtail | Zebra Danio | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 65–77°F | 72–77°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 7–8.4 | 6.5–7.5 | 7–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 5.5" | 2.5" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 20 gal | 10 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Swordtail + Zebra Danio
To keep Swordtail and Zebra Danio together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Swordtail should be kept in a school of 3+. Zebra Danio 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 →Zebra Danio
Danio rerio
Zebra danios are one of the hardiest, most energetic freshwater fish in the hobby. Their horizontal blue and silver stripes and constant darting motion add life to any aquarium. They tolerate a remarkably wide range of conditions, from cool subtropical to warm tropical temperatures, making them ideal for beginners. They are also the species used as the basis for GloFish.
Full care guide →