Fin's Fish Guide
The Mexican swordtail (Xiphophorus montezumae) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Endemic to north-eastern Mexico, in clear springs and mountain rivers of the Pánuco river basin.
Description
The Montezuma swordtail is a livebearing toothcarp (family Poeciliidae) of north-eastern Mexico. The species reaches about 5 cm (excluding the male's sword tail) and has a slender, yellow-brown body, often with a zigzag line on the flank. The male carries a greatly elongated, sword-shaped lower caudal ray displayed during courtship. It lives in clear springs and mountain rivers of the Pánuco drainage. Its diet consists of algae, detritus, insect larvae and small zooplankton. Owing to its limited range its conservation status is assessed as Data Deficient (DD). The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mexican swordtail?
The Mexican swordtail has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Ovoviviparous swordtail; the males bear a strongly elongated, sword-shaped lower caudal ray.
Where does the Mexican swordtail live?
The Mexican swordtail lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to north-eastern Mexico, in clear springs and mountain rivers of the Pánuco river basin.
How big does the Mexican swordtail get?
The Mexican swordtail grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Mexican swordtail dangerous to humans?
No, the Mexican swordtail is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Mexican swordtail edible?
The Mexican swordtail is not usually eaten.
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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 Mexican swordtail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mexican swordtail is one of 12,519 species in the app.