Blub
Platy
(Xiphophorus maculatus)
Common names: Platy, Southern platyfish.
Size: 6cm (approx 2.5 in)
pH: 7.0 – 8.0
Tempº: 18ºC - 26ºC (64 F -78 F)
Tank region: All layers
Origin: Central America
Gender: Males have a gonopodium.
Notes: The Platy is a perfect beginner's fish because of it's small size and hardy nature. Platies are very tolerant to changes in water chemistry, but still need good water conditions to thrive. They are incredibly easy to breed; all that is required is to place the male and female fish together. Because Platies are livebearers, they do not lay eggs and the female gives birth to live young. Because these fish breed so readily, it is not recommended that both sexes be mixed in the aquarium unless you want them to breed. Contrary to popular belief, males will not fight as long as no females are present. If females are present though, a ration of 1 male to every 3 females will ensure no one female is constantly harassed. It should be noted that Platies will breed with another fish of the Xiphophorus genus - the Swordtail. Because Platies are so easy to breed, many colour varieties have appeared, allowing the aquarist to 'mix and match' their fish to create a diverse yet peaceful tank.
Left Image: A group of female Platys
Middle Image: A Platy's head
Right Image: A blue platy
(Xiphophorus maculatus)
Common names: Platy, Southern platyfish.
Size: 6cm (approx 2.5 in)
pH: 7.0 – 8.0
Tempº: 18ºC - 26ºC (64 F -78 F)
Tank region: All layers
Origin: Central America
Gender: Males have a gonopodium.
Notes: The Platy is a perfect beginner's fish because of it's small size and hardy nature. Platies are very tolerant to changes in water chemistry, but still need good water conditions to thrive. They are incredibly easy to breed; all that is required is to place the male and female fish together. Because Platies are livebearers, they do not lay eggs and the female gives birth to live young. Because these fish breed so readily, it is not recommended that both sexes be mixed in the aquarium unless you want them to breed. Contrary to popular belief, males will not fight as long as no females are present. If females are present though, a ration of 1 male to every 3 females will ensure no one female is constantly harassed. It should be noted that Platies will breed with another fish of the Xiphophorus genus - the Swordtail. Because Platies are so easy to breed, many colour varieties have appeared, allowing the aquarist to 'mix and match' their fish to create a diverse yet peaceful tank.
Left Image: A group of female Platys
Middle Image: A Platy's head
Right Image: A blue platy
