Kohaku Wagtail Swordtail
A white-bodied swordtail with bold red kohaku patterning and solid black fins in the wagtail style. Large, active and simple to keep given swimming room.
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 is preferred.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Species | Swordtail |
| Color Pattern | White body with red kohaku markings, black fins |
| Size | Medium to large |
| Temperament | Peaceful, active, male-male aggression possible |
| Water Type | Hard alkaline |
| Feeding Type | Omnivorous |
FAQ
What is the ideal tank size for Kohaku Wagtail Swordtails?
They require a large swimming space and should be kept in a tank with ample length. A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended, with more space being better for their active behavior.
Do Kohaku Wagtail Swordtails need a lid?
Yes, they are known to jump, so a secure lid is essential to prevent escape.
Can I keep multiple male Kohaku Wagtail Swordtails together?
No, males can be aggressive toward each other. It is best to keep only one male or a small group of males with careful observation, but never two males together.
Samantha Terry –
The kohaku patterning is striking and the fish are very active. I kept one male in a 30-gallon tank with a lid. They swim constantly and display their tail lobe when excited. Feeding is easy with a mix of flake and blanched vegetables.
Sally Greene –
Great color and movement. I added a few algae wafers and spirulina flakes. The fish are peaceful with other species, though I only kept one male to avoid aggression. Needs a long tank, but worth the space.
Jasmine Russell –
Very vibrant fish with bold red and white patterns. They are active swimmers and enjoy the full tank length. I use frozen foods occasionally and they eat well. The tail display is impressive and adds visual interest.