will swordtails and mollies cross breed and how likely is this?

Question

i have two female mollies one male,one sword tail male and female,in 20 gal tall tank,

Answer 1

Both Palties, guppies and swordtails all belong to the same family of fishes, Poeciliidae. Thus their genetic make is simillar and not identical. So, cross bredding is possible except their offsprings would be sterile. That is unable to repoduce themselves.
FROM http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/printthread.php?t=48106&pp=40


Although platies and swordtails will breed in captivity, their propagation tends to be a bit trickier than most livebearers. Male swordtails are distinguishable from females by both their gonopodium and sword projection on the tail fin. Do not be fooled, however - some males may go their entire lives without ever growing a pronounced sword. Reliable sexing is attained only through the absence or presence of the gonopodium. The females of both platies and swordtails also exhibit a darkened patch toward their vent, which expands or contracts based on her degree of pregnancy; very pregnant fish will exhibit a very large dark patch.
These fish tend to mate with just about anything they can get a hold on and can easily hybridize, thereby rendering the offspring infertile. This occurs when too many generations of the same bloodline continue breeding. When successful broods are produced, the fry are quite fragile and may be physically stunted if not given a sufficient amount of a proper diet.

Not the most prolific of the livebearers, mollies tend to brood every eight to 10 weeks (instead of four), but may birth as many as 130 to 150 fry. Just remember to feed your mollies a hefty amount of vegetable matter if you want them to breed. Although it is not fully understood, the reproductive chemistry of these fish will not properly operate without a plant-rich diet.
FROM http://www.aquariumfish.com/aquariumfish/detail.aspx?aid=22769&cid=53&search=
A

Answer 2

Mine did all the time! This led to a new "bred" that had twin bars and they were beautiful! I always added a teaspoon of salt (not table, of course) per gallon, and this did not do anything but keep the ick and disease from the fish tanks. In the "old" days, before chemicals were available, salt was the only form of treatment. today most medicines for the tank have a high content of salt in them for this reason.

I had over 30 tanks at one time several years ago. I had to reduce the numbers after buying a new smaller home. We had over 4,000 square feet, and moved to a home close to 3,000 sq. feet. The fun in fish keeping is having all one kind in one tank to prevent cross breeding, but I also had one exactly for that purpose. Swordtails were one of my favorites along with Angles. Platys and mollies will also cross breed. When swordtails and mollies are allowed to breed, this leads to extra large sized swords. I had some that were over six inches long from head to tip of tail, and they can be sold for a great price! Much more money if you have twin bar swords!

Answer 3

well, depends....
if all you had were female mollies and a swordtail male. they would mate. (i made this mistake once) He was a horn dog. and chased the mollies everywere.
but with male and female of both species in the same tank, it is unlikely.

Both are fresh water fish but mollies also like a tiny bit of salt in their water. if you are not having problems with them then dont add it but if the mollies seem a little sluggish, you may have to add some.

Answer 4

Yes they do. Basically swordtails are of the same breed as mollies. Just look out for the mating of ther male fish as they approach the female. they will use their lower "fin" and "poke" at the female.

Answer 5

I did tropical fish for about 15 years and never had mollies and swordfish crossbreed. Lots of baby mollies but no cross breeding.

Answer 6

Everything I've read indicates. They are simply not closely enough related. They will mate, but I've never had any cross breds. Swordtail, and platty can and will crossbred.

Answer 7

im pretty shure they do, there both livebearers too. Good luck

Answer 8

I think they will but I don't think it is really likely but keep trying .