Can rams live with swordtails?
Verdict
No
No. Rams and swordtails should not share a tank. No shared temperature. Rams need 80–86°F, swordtails need 72–79°F.
What to watch
- Deal breakerNo shared temperature. Rams need 80–86°F, swordtails need 72–79°F.
- Watch outWater chemistry is a squeeze. The only pH that suits both is around 7.
What works
- They use different parts of the tank: rams the bottom, swordtails the mid.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| German blue ram | Swordtail | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 80–86 °F | 72–79 °F |
| pH | 5–7 | 7–8.3 |
| Adult size | 2.5 in | 5.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gal | 30 gal |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Semi-aggressive |
| Swims at | Bottom | Middle |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Groups of 3+ |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore |
Better tank mates for rams
All german blue ram tank mates
Better tank mates for swordtails
Questions
Can rams live with swordtails?
No. Rams and swordtails should not share a tank. No shared temperature. Rams need 80–86°F, swordtails need 72–79°F.
What temperature suits both rams and swordtails?
None. Rams need 80–86 °F and swordtails need 72–79 °F, so the ranges do not meet.
What size tank do rams and swordtails need together?
At least 30 gal, set by the swordtail. Add space for each extra fish.