The Hamburg-Highfin variety of Xiphophorus hellerii comes from the “Hamburg” lines, known for their black or dark body with green/blue iridescent sheen and for the strongly developed dorsal fin, the so-called “Simpson fin”. This is a tank-bred, highly decorative fish, appreciated for its strong visual presence in community aquariums or tanks dedicated to livebearers.

Behavior & care

• Calm, social fish, compatible with other moderate livebearers.
• Active swimmer, appreciates tanks with ample open swimming space.
• Livebearer – easy to breed for the hobbyist.

It is recommended to keep a mixed group (several females per male) to limit male harassment of the females.

Feeding

Omnivore:

• Flakes and pellets for tropical fish.
• Supplements of live or frozen foods (worms, daphnia) for variety and stimulation.
• Vegetable-based foods to balance the diet.

A varied diet ensures good growth, intense coloration and vitality.

Water quality

• Temperature: 22 - 26 °C
• pH: 7.0 - 8.0
• GH: 8 - 15 °dGH
• KH: 3 - 10 °KH

It adapts well to normal tap water in Europe, but good filtration and regular water changes are recommended to maintain optimal water quality.

Décor & environment

Preferences:

• Fine sand or neutral gravel
• Floating plants and/or Vallisneria stems to soften the light.
• Recommended volume: minimum 80 L for a group.

Avoid aggressive or very large tankmates that may frighten this fish or compromise its well-being.

Care sheet

Scientific name	Xiphophorus hellerii "Hamburg Highfin"
Common name	Hamburg highfin swordtail
Estimated adult size	6 - 10 cm (male may develop a swordtail)
Size when sold	4 - 5 cm
Origin	Tank-bred line (derived “Hamburg” form)
Temperature	22 - 26 °C
pH	7.0 - 8.0
GH	8 - 15 °dGH
KH	3 - 10 °KH
Life expectancy	2 - 4 years (depending on conditions)
Behavior	Calm, social, lively
Swimming zone	Surface / middle
Minimum volume	80 L (group)
Diet	Omnivore

AquaBota tip

To highlight this variety, choose a dark substrate and moderate lighting to bring out the green/blue highlights on the black body. Maintain good oxygenation and only gentle water movement, as this highfin form tends to swim more calmly and is less comfortable in strong currents.