Xiphophorus cortezi

Short sword, prominent dorsal, and serious male rivalry risk.

This grey-green male has a pinkish sheen, zigzag dark scale edges, a spotted dorsal and short sword. Male body and sword forms vary; short swords do not establish age.

Adult length: Up to 5 cm
Water temperature: 24–28 °C
pH: 7.5–8.2
Hardness: 5–20 dGH

Natural habitat: Inhabits fast-flowing waters.

Male fights can be fatal; sparring persisted after more space. Avoid temperatures as high as 27°C.

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Appearance and identification

The cortezi has a more prominent spotted dorsal and short sword than the continens male.

Same-species behaviour

Dominance changes may cause injury or death. Monitor and prepare separation. More space allows several territories.

Diet and feeding

Accepts flakes.

Compatibility limits

Evaluate male rivalry, space and retreat conditions first.

Aquarium environment

Plants and coarse gravel serve as fry refuge.

Sources

www.aquariumglaser.de ↗ 2026-10-23

www.fishbase.se ↗ 2026-10-25

www.britishlivebearerassociation.co.uk ↗ 2026-10-23

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov ↗ 2026-10-23