Red Hi-Fin Swordtail
A solid red swordtail carrying an enlarged sail-like dorsal fin alongside the extended tail sword. Large, bold and hard to miss in a community tank.
Feeding
Omnivorous with a vegetable requirement. Flake with spirulina content, algae wafers, blanched vegetables and frozen foods.
Compatibility
Generally peaceful but active and fairly large for a livebearer. Males can be pushy with each other, so keep either one male or several, never two. Needs swimming length.
Behaviour and personality
Strong, purposeful swimmers that use the full length of the tank. Males display with the extended lower tail lobe that gives the fish its name.
Before you buy
Needs more space than platies or guppies and will jump, so a lid is essential. Hard alkaline water required.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Species | Red Hi-Fin Swordtail |
| Origin | South America |
| Size (adult) | 4-6 inches |
| Water Type | Hard alkaline |
| Temperament | Peaceful, active |
| Feeding Type | Omnivorous |
FAQ
Can I keep two male Red Hi-Fin Swordtails together?
No, males can be pushy with each other. It is recommended to keep only one male or a group of males with sufficient space, but never two males in the same tank.
What kind of tank setup is best for this fish?
A tank with ample swimming length is required. A lid is essential due to their tendency to jump. The water should be hard and alkaline.
What do Red Hi-Fin Swordtails eat?
They are omnivorous and require a varied diet including flake food with spirulina, algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and frozen foods.

Luke Randall –
The Red Hi-Fin Swordtail is a striking addition to my tank. Its bold red color and extended tail make it stand out. I feed it a mix of spirulina flakes and blanched peas daily. It swims actively and displays its tail lobe when interested. Needs a large tank and a lid, which I have provided. Very satisfied with the fish.
Stephanie Blake –
This fish is vibrant and energetic. I kept one male in a 55-gallon tank with plenty of open space. It doesn’t get aggressive and enjoys swimming near the surface. I feed it a balanced diet with algae wafers and frozen bloodworms. It’s a great choice for a bold, active community fish.
Anthony Brown –
The color and movement of the Red Hi-Fin Swordtail are impressive. I noticed it extends its tail lobe during courtship displays. It’s active and requires a well-maintained tank with hard alkaline water. I’ve kept it for over six months and it’s thriving.