Click Here to See Images

Basics

Scientific Name: Xiphophorus maculatus

Family: Poeciliidae

Origin: Tank raised: species originally from Malayisa, Singapore

Quick Facts

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Lifespan: 2-3 years
• Water Conditions: 64-77° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.0-8.2
• Maximum Size: 2"
• Diet: Omnivore
• Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons

Overview

The platy is an easy, hardy beginner fish. They have been selectively bred to be available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including shades of orange, black, red, blue and white. Being livebearers, they are also extremely easy to spawn in the home aquarium and the fry will reach adulthood and be able to breed themselves at 3-4 months of age.

They can live in a relatively small tank, but in a larger tank, will be an excellent addition to any freshwater community aquarium. Like many other fish, they will appreciate live plants and places to hide throughout the tank. They can be housed with other peaceful fish.

Platties are omnivores and will readily accept most commercial flake and pellet foods but will also enjoy frozen and freeze dried bloodworms and brine shrimp.