Definition

Noun: * A small, brightly colored freshwater fish (Xiphophorus hellerii) native to Central America, characterized by a distinctive elongated lower tail fin ray in males that resembles a sword. It is a popular species in home aquariums.

Examples

• The male helleri is easily identified by its sword-like tail extension.
• Many aquarium enthusiasts keep helleri for their vibrant colors and active behavior.
• In the wild, helleri are often found in fast-flowing streams and rivers.

Advanced Usage

• The helleri is more formally known as the green swordtail, which is its common name in the aquarium trade.
• As a livebearer, the female helleri gives birth to free-swimming fry rather than laying eggs.

Variants and Related Words

• Swordtail (n): The common name for fish of the species.
• Platy (n): A closely related and similar-looking aquarium fish (genus ), often confused with the swordtail.

Synonyms

• Green swordtail
• Swordtail fish

Noun

1. freshwater fish of Central America having a long swordlike tail; popular aquarium fish