Percula Clownfish and Swordtail Compatibility Overview
Percula Clownfish and Swordtail are generally not recommended to be housed together. One of these is a marine species and the other is not; they cannot share one aquarium. Their usable pH overlap is narrow and requires stable, tested water. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
| Factor | Percula Clownfish | Swordtail | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74โ82ยฐF | 65โ80ยฐF | โ 74โ80ยฐF |
| pH Range | 8.1โ8.4 | 7.0โ8.3 | โ ๏ธ 8.1โ8.3 (narrow) |
| Temperament | semi | peaceful | โ ๏ธ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 3.0 in | 5 in | โ Similar |
| Min. Group | 2+ | 3+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 55 gallons (for both species) | โ | |
Compatibility Positives
Incompatibility Reasons
Species Profiles
Percula Clownfish โ Amphiprion percula
The Percula Clownfish, also known as the False Percula, is a popular beginner fish due to its hardiness and striking coloration. These fish are best kept in a saltwater tank with a minimum size of 30 gallons and compatible tankmates. They are peaceful, non-aggressive and do well in groups with other compatible species.
โ Full Percula Clownfish care guide
Swordtail โ Xiphophorus hellerii
Hardy livebearer with a distinctive elongated lower tail fin in males. Peaceful community fish that tolerate a wide temperature range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Percula Clownfish live with Swordtail?
Generally not recommended. Percula Clownfish and Swordtail are generally not recommended to be housed together. One of these is a marine species and the other is not; they cannot share one aquarium. Their usable pH overlap is narrow and requires stable, tested water. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
What tank size do I need for Percula Clownfish and Swordtail together?
A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for keeping Percula Clownfish and Swordtail together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Percula Clownfish and Swordtail?
74โ80ยฐF โ inside Percula Clownfish's 74โ82ยฐF and Swordtail's 65โ80ยฐF.
Is a Percula Clownfish aggressive toward a Swordtail?
Percula Clownfish is semi and Swordtail is peaceful. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Percula Clownfish and Swordtail
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 55 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 75 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 125 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |