Swordtail Red Simpson (Xiphophorus helleri red simpson) - Tropical Fish for Sale UK

Deep red along the flanks with the species' signature tail extension trailing behind: the Red Simpson Swordtail (Xiphophorus helleri red simpson) is a striking red form of one of the hobby's best-known livebearers. Growing to roughly 12 cm, it is among the larger fish most community keepers will own, yet it carries that size gracefully through the middle water layer. If you want one bold splash of colour without resorting to artificial decor, a red-bodied swordtail does the work on its own. For all the bold looks, it remains an easy-care strain with a peaceful temperament.

Companionship is straightforward. Other peaceful livebearers, platies, mollies, Corydoras catfish, Otocinclus and snails are all listed as good matches. The fish to leave out are large aggressive cichlids, fin-nippers, predatory species, very delicate slow movers and anything that insists on soft acidic water — this strain sits firmly on the neutral-to-alkaline side, preferring a pH of 7.0–8.5 and hardness anywhere from 5 to 30 dGH.

Feeding could hardly be simpler: as an omnivore the Red Simpson accepts a wide and varied menu, and at 23–27 °C it stays busy and visible all day. The easy-care rating here means exactly what beginners hope it does — hold the listed ranges with a heater and a reliable filter, change some water each week, and the fish handles the rest. With steady conditions, expect a lifespan in the region of three years.

Keeping Red Simpson Swordtails

• Grows to: about 12 cm
• Aquarium: from 100 litres
• Temperature band: 23–27 °C
• pH 7.0–8.5; hardness 5–30 dGH
• Diet: omnivorous; care level: easy
• Peaceful; midwater; around 3 years

Buying and stocking

Because adults reach a good size, allow 100 litres or more and prioritise swimming length over tank height. A Red Simpson slots neatly into an established livebearer community and looks especially vivid over paler substrates that set off the red. If the tank is shared with smaller livebearers, expect this strain to become the visual anchor of the whole group. Settle new arrivals in gently with a quiet first day before the lights return to full. Every order is packed for transit and carried by a licensed live-animal courier, backed by our live arrival guarantee.