Swordtail and Yellow Tang Compatibility Overview
Swordtail and Yellow Tang 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 | Swordtail | Yellow Tang | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 65โ80ยฐF | 72โ82ยฐF | โ 72โ80ยฐF |
| pH Range | 7.0โ8.3 | 8.1โ8.4 | โ ๏ธ 8.1โ8.3 (narrow) |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi | โ ๏ธ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 5 in | 8.0 in | โ Similar |
| Min. Group | 3+ | 1+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 75 gallons (for both species) | โ | |
Compatibility Positives
Incompatibility Reasons
Species Profiles
Swordtail โ Xiphophorus hellerii
Hardy livebearer with a distinctive elongated lower tail fin in males. Peaceful community fish that tolerate a wide temperature range.
Yellow Tang โ Zebrasoma flavescens
The Yellow Tang is a popular and vibrant fish suitable for beginners. With its bright yellow color and blue stripes, it adds a striking contrast to the aquarium. They are generally peaceful and can be kept in a community tank, though they may be nippy with certain tankmates. They require a well-maintained tank with plenty of swimming space and a varied diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Swordtail live with Yellow Tang?
Generally not recommended. Swordtail and Yellow Tang 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 Swordtail and Yellow Tang together?
A minimum of 75 gallons is recommended for keeping Swordtail and Yellow Tang together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Swordtail and Yellow Tang?
72โ80ยฐF โ inside Swordtail's 65โ80ยฐF and Yellow Tang's 72โ82ยฐF.
Is a Swordtail aggressive toward a Yellow Tang?
Swordtail is peaceful and Yellow Tang is semi. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Swordtail and Yellow Tang
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 100 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 150 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 180 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |