Is this somewhat normal behavior for these types of fish?? They are different types of swardtails, and the female bites at the male one all the time...he even tries to hide from her... Could this be because she was the only swardtail in the tank for too long and he is new?? Or is this somewhat common behavior??
2007-04-24 13:36:47 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Fish
He has found a pretty good place to hid for now, but do you think they will get used to each other??
2007-04-24 13:44:07 · update #1
they aren't the only two fish in the tank... there are a few other livebreaders in there including 3 platys and 1 molly
2007-04-24 14:46:21 · update #2
It may be territorial aggression. I would suggest adding some greenery to your tank if you haven't already. This will help with the male not always "being in her space" as he will have a space to hide. Also it will be important for when she gets pregnant and has babies. Swordtails are schooling fish and are supposed to do failry well with fish that are the same breed. Good luck!
2007-04-24 14:00:28 · answer #1 · answered by Lady J 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Funny, usually the male terroizes the female. Generally, swordtails do better in a group with male to female ratios of 1:2 or higher. Ex. 1 male 2 or more females or 2 males 4 or more females, etc.
It sure sounds sexist to us, but they aren't very enlighted little creatures.
2007-04-24 20:54:31 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yep, it's unusual but it happens. You are right it is because he's new and she had claimed the entire tank. Livebearers can be more aggressive and territorial than people give them credit for. It will probably settle down in a few days after he gets used to the tank and quits putting up with her so to speak.
MM
2007-04-24 20:59:44 · answer #3 · answered by magicman116 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can't have one male and one female with livebearers. You need 2 or even 3 females per male, or they will never get peace from the male. The females tend to be bigger, so they do get mean.
2007-04-24 21:11:53 · answer #4 · answered by JJB 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It could be any of the reasons that you have listed. Plant some plants so he has a fighting chance. Then again she maybe just trying to get his attention. lol You know that girls play games. lol Good luck.
2007-04-24 20:41:33 · answer #5 · answered by Miki M 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Lots of people don't get along either.
2007-04-24 20:49:34 · answer #6 · answered by Charlie J. 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋