Fin's Fish Guide
The Chiapas swordtail (Xiphophorus alvarezi) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
Alvarez's swordtail is a livebearer (Poeciliidae) from the Usumacinta drainage in Central America. The species is small and yellow-green with a blue sheen; adult males bear an elongated lower caudal ray projecting as a 'sword', characteristic of the swordtails. It lives in clear, fast-flowing water of rivers and streams. As an omnivore it feeds on algae, small zooplankton and insect larvae. The female bears live young. It is popular in the aquarium hobby and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chiapas swordtail?
The Chiapas swordtail has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Male with a sword-shaped extension of the tail; ovoviviparous aquarium fish of fast-flowing water.
Where does the Chiapas swordtail live?
The Chiapas swordtail lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Usumacinta basin in Central America; clear fast-flowing water.
How big does the Chiapas swordtail get?
The Chiapas swordtail grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Chiapas swordtail dangerous to humans?
No, the Chiapas swordtail is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Chiapas swordtail edible?
The Chiapas swordtail is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Chiapas swordtail?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Xiphophorus
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Chiapas swordtail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chiapas swordtail is one of 12,519 species in the app.