Red Wagtail Swordtail

1. Tank Size: Red Wagtail Swordtails require a tank size of at least 20 gallons for a small group or pair. Provide additional space if keeping larger groups or multiple individuals.

2. Water Conditions: Maintain a temperature between 72°F and 78°F (22°C - 26°C) and a pH level between 7.0 and 8.0, which replicates their natural habitat. Use a reliable aquarium heater and test kit to monitor and maintain water parameters.

3. Filtration: A good filtration system is essential to keep the water clean and well-oxygenated. A hang-on-back or canister filter with biological, mechanical, and chemical media will help maintain water quality.

4. Tank Setup: Red Wagtail Swordtails prefer a well-planted aquarium with some open swimming space. Provide plenty of plants, driftwood, and rocks for hiding places and visual barriers. Use a substrate of gravel or sand.

5. Diet: Red Wagtail Swordtails are omnivorous. They require a varied diet consisting of high-quality flakes or pellets designed for tropical fish. Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and vegetable matter like blanched spinach or spirulina-based flakes.

6. Tankmates: Red Wagtail Swordtails are generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful community fish that are not excessively fin-nipping. Avoid aggressive or territorial species that may harass or stress them. Suitable tankmates include tetras, rasboras, mollies, platies, and peaceful bottom-dwelling fish.

7. Behavior: Red Wagtail Swordtails are active swimmers and appreciate open swimming areas. They are also known for their prominent sword-like tail extension. Provide adequate space and minimize clutter in the tank to allow them to swim freely.

8. Breeding: Red Wagtail Swordtails are livebearers and can breed readily in home aquariums. If you want to breed them, provide a separate breeding tank with plenty of plants or floating plants for fry to hide in. Remove the adults once breeding is complete to prevent predation.

9. Water Changes: Regular water changes of around 25% every week are crucial to maintain good water quality. This will help remove accumulated nitrates and maintain optimal conditions for your Red Wagtail Swordtails.

Remember, these care guidelines are general and should be adjusted based on the specific needs and behavior of your Red Wagtail Swordtails. Regular observation and monitoring of their behavior and water conditions will help ensure their health and well-being.