Sanke Swordtail

🔥 Sanke Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii “Sanke”)

Add bold pattern and striking contrast to your aquarium with the eye-catching Sanke Swordtail. Inspired by the classic Japanese koi pattern, this stunning variety features a mix of white, red, and black markings, combined with the iconic elongated “sword” tail of the male.

Active, colourful, and full of personality, Sanke Swordtails are perfect for aquarists looking for a standout livebearer with a unique appearance.

🌿 Why Choose Sanke Swordtail?

🎨 Koi-style red, white, and black “Sanke” pattern
⚔️ Distinctive elongated sword tail (males)
🐠 Active and lively community fish
🌱 Ideal for planted and larger aquariums
⭐ Unique and eye-catching livebearer in the UK

When kept in groups, Sanke Swordtails create a dynamic and colourful display, with males often showcasing their flowing tails and vibrant patterns.

📏 Care Requirements

🧬 Scientific Name: Xiphophorus hellerii (Sanke variety)
📛 Common Name: Sanke Swordtail
🏠 Tank Size: 80L+ recommended
🌡️ Temperature: 22–28°C
⚗️ pH Range: 7.0–8.5
🧘 Temperament: Peaceful (males may compete)
🍽️ Diet: Flakes, pellets, vegetable matter, frozen & live foods
👥 Group Size: 4–6+ recommended (more females than males)

Sanke Swordtails thrive in well-maintained aquariums with open swimming space, good filtration, and some planted areas for cover.

🐠 Compatibility

Ideal for community aquariums. They mix well with other livebearers such as guppies, mollies, and platies, as well as tetras, rasboras, and Corydoras. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species.

Important Notes

Swordtails are livebearers and will breed readily in aquariums. Males may show dominance behaviour, so keeping more females than males helps reduce aggression. They prefer slightly harder, alkaline water conditions.

The Sanke Swordtail is a fantastic choice for UK aquarists looking for a bold, patterned, and active fish that adds colour, movement, and individuality to community aquariums.