Kohaku Koi Swordtail

Kohaku Koi Swordtails: A Vibrant Addition to Any Aquarium

The Kohaku Koi Swordtail is a stunning livebearer fish that brings a splash of vivid color and lively energy to freshwater aquariums. Named for its resemblance to the renowned Kohaku Koi, this swordtail variety showcases a bright white body adorned with bold red-orange patches, making it a true visual standout.

These peaceful and hardy fish are an excellent choice for aquarists of all experience levels. Their active swimming habits and vibrant coloration make them a favorite centerpiece in community tanks, while their relatively simple care requirements ensure they thrive in a range of setups.

Beyond their beauty, Kohaku Koi Swordtails are social and engaging fish that do well in groups, providing a dynamic and interactive display as they explore the aquarium.

Key Characteristics

• Size: Males reach up to 4 inches (10 cm), while females are slightly larger, growing up to 5 inches (12 cm).
• Coloration: A pristine white body with vivid red-orange patches, reminiscent of Kohaku Koi patterns.
• Temperament: Peaceful and active, they coexist well with other non-aggressive tank mates.
• Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care.

Care Requirements

• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C).
  • pH: 7.0–8.4.
  • Hardness: Moderate to hard water (10–20 dGH).
• Diet: Omnivorous; feed a mix of high-quality flake food, live or frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, and vegetable matter like blanched spinach or spirulina flakes.
• Tank Setup:
  • Minimum tank size: 20 gallons.
  • Provide open swimming spaces with areas of live or artificial plants for hiding.
  • Ensure a tight-fitting lid, as they may jump.

Compatibility

Kohaku Koi Swordtails are community-friendly and pair well with other peaceful fish such as:

• Tetras (Neon, Ember, Rummynose)
• Rasboras (Harlequin, Lambchop)
• Corydoras Catfish
• Platies and Guppies
• Mollies
• Peaceful Gouramis (Honey or Dwarf Gouramis)

Important Considerations

• Gender Ratio: Keep one male to every 2–3 females to prevent stress from excessive breeding behavior.
• Breeding: These livebearers are prolific breeders. If you don’t want fry, consider keeping only one gender or adding predators like bettas or angelfish that may eat the fry.
• Water Quality: Regular water changes and good filtration are essential for their health and coloration.

Kohaku Koi Swordtails are an elegant, hardy species that add both beauty and activity to any aquarium. With proper care and a compatible community, they’ll thrive and delight aquarists for years to come