Montezuma Swordtail (Xyphophorus montezumae)

The Montezuma Swordtail, also known as “monties” can be considered as one of the few wild types and purebred fish that can be nurtured in the aquarium hobby. Though a native fish in Central America, it can also be found in the North-eastern part of Mexico, living in the water areas having thick vegetation. This type of swordtail normally reaches up to 2 inches in body length, but some of them can be a little bit longer. One of their best features is of course, their sword! Some males can have swords even longer than their body length. Xyphophorus montezumae has light to dark spots which is largely evident on the males.

Nurturing a Montezuma Swordtail is not difficult. Here are some guidelines on how to keep them safe and sound in your tanks.

Water Requirement
Just like any other fish, this native swordtail requires clean water. It is advisable that the water has a stable water acidity that is at least 7.0 in pH but will not exceed 8.0.

In the Aquarium
Montezuma Swordtails are mostly shy in nature, especially the females. They love to hide themselves and their fry through the aquarium plants. Monties are also peaceful types, they enjoy having some time alone; a nice and wide space of swimming area is therefore suitable.

Fish Food

The Montezuma Swordtails are generally not picky. They consume mostly the common fish foods offered in the market. However, in order to keep them healthy and breeding for you, providing them a variety of fish foods and supplements are also important.

Monties are gorgeous wild bred of fish. Their color and size add up to their stunning look as they swim around the aquariums. Seeing one for sale in the market can be one of your lucky days if you aim to collect fishes of different breeds. If you are interested on breeding Montezuma Swordtail, try searching in the fish stores near you.