Swordtails.

[The Mottfish]

Was just wondering, do Swordtails make good community fish as I've read they can be quite aggressive?

The problem I may have though is that I recently added some Serpae tetras to my tank (Unknowingly, which has really angered me, as they are well known for there aggressive fin nippingness, as they weren't labelled a Serpae tetras [or Callisto tetras] and I didn't recognise them in the shop so I guess I will just have to hope for the best. Grrrrrr! [Unless anyone knows of a tetra which looks similar to them?] Sorry to rant!)

Would a male Swordtail be likely to be nipped/harrassed?

 

[lilfishie]

first we need your tank size and current stocking

 

[dane261]

are you sure they arent silver tip tetras as they are well evil had to get rid of me betta because of them

 

[The Mottfish]

Defo Serpaes though without the black spot.

The tank is a 39 gal. 120cm long. Serpaes are the first fish I've put in (There are 5 of them btw.)

Cheers.

 

[lilfishie]

i think he would be fine in there, as long as you keep an eye out for any nipping

 

[theotheragentm]

Nippers are generally always nippers. Yes, fish do have different personalities and the only true way is to see, but be prepared to separate and possibly return incompatible fish.

 

[The Mottfish]

What would the minimum tank size be that a swordtail could live in? (Will only be temporary, would a 6 gall be too small for a male and 2-3 females?

I have a few old tanks so will have to set one up before I get the Swordtails incase of an emergency. Could the tetras live in a 6 gallon? Will most fish shops take back fish even though it's been a while since I got them?

All this farce from being misinformed!

Thanks again.

 

[lilfishie]

swordtails really need a minimum tank size of 15 gal, you could get a betta for the six gal

 

[theotheragentm]

I would recommend a 20 gallon long for Swordtails, because of their active swimming habits.