30 Gallon Tank What’s with male platys dying sooner than females?

Hey! So, I’ve been a big molly and platy owner for as long as I can remember but recently, I’ve been really seeing that my females last A LOT longer than my males. What’s up with that? I know that the males get the curved spine from aging and over-breeding, but is there anyway to help with that? One of my male high-finned platys seems low energy and has been keeping his dorsal fin pinned for the most part. Thankfully, he’s still eating good. I feel like every time I get a male platy or molly, I lose them in a few months. Is that just me or is this a common problem? Thanks! ~Purity

 

Hey! So, I’ve been a big molly and platy owner for as long as I can remember but recently, I’ve been really seeing that my females last A LOT longer than my males. What’s up with that? I know that the males get the curved spine from aging and over-breeding, but is there anyway to help with that? One of my male high-finned platys seems low energy and has been keeping his dorsal fin pinned for the most part. Thankfully, he’s still eating good. I feel like every time I get a male platy or molly, I lose them in a few months. Is that just me or is this a common problem? Thanks! ~Purity

Same! My females seem to last longer then males!

 

Same! My females seem to last longer then males!

I guess I might not be doing something wrong! It’s so weird!

 

I guess I might not be doing something wrong! It’s so weird!

Yeah. I want to know why my males die with arched backs, sunken bellys, etc.

 

Yeah. I want to know why my males die with arched backs, sunken bellys, etc.

Yeah. Me too. I get attached to my fish.

 

Yeah. Me too. I get attached to my fish.

Same. Their just so fun!

 

Are you getting all your fish from the same source? If so, you could try get some platies from another shop/breeder and mix up the genetics a bit.

 

I go to three LFS and I still have the same problem. It’s strange.

 

Well in general, it shouldn't make a difference in lifespan when it comes to gender. It could be that all those stores you've bought guppies and platies from, have the same supllier (wholesaler). Maybe the issue should be investigated overthere instead at the stores.

 

Well in general, it shouldn't make a difference in lifespan when it comes to gender. It could be that all those stores you've bought guppies and platies from, have the same supllier (wholesaler). Maybe the issue should be investigated overthere instead at the stores.

Thank you! I might have to check that out!

 

Maybe try sourcing from a local breeder on Kijiji in your area. I'd rather deal directly with the guy who raised the fish. The guy I used the last couple times shows you all his tanks and you pretty much have to make an excuse to get out of there. It's nice knowing exactly where your fish came from.

 

Maybe try sourcing from a local breeder on Kijiji in your area. I'd rather deal directly with the guy who raised the fish. The guy I used the last couple times shows you all his tanks and you pretty much have to make an excuse to get out of there. It's nice knowing exactly where your fish came from.

Wow! I had no idea that Kijiji existed! Thank you! I’m going to check that out! I appreciate your help!