Platy
Xiphophorus maculatus
Profile
| Family: | Livebearing toothcarps (Poeciliidae) | ||
| Home: | Central America, especially Mexico, Honduras and Guatemala | ||
| Synonyms: | Platypoecilus maculatus, platy, platyfish, platy carp, Xiphophorus maculatus / variatus | ||
| First introduction: | 1907 | ||
| Size: | F. up to 6 cm; M. up to 3.5 cm | ||
| Sexual differences: | Males have a gonopodium (remodelled anal fin) and are often slimmer; females are rounder and usually slightly larger | ||
| Nutrition: | Fresh food such as vegetables, algae, artemia, mosquito larvae A varied diet promotes colour and vitality | ||
| Temperature: | 18-25°C | ||
| Tank size: | from 54 litres | ||
| Water values: |
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Profile
Area of origin:
Platies originally come from small rivers, streams and lagoons in Central America, often in densely overgrown bank areas.
Species:
The platies available in pet shops are usually breeding forms of two species:
- Xiphophorus maculatus (Southern Platy)
- Xiphophorus variatus (Variatus platy)
Often hybridised. The species frequently offered in pet shops include (cultivated forms and colour variants)
- Red Platy
- Sun platy
- Tuxedo Platy
- Wagtail Platy
- Blue platy
- Variatus Platy
- Koi-Platy
- Highfin Platy
Social behaviour:
Platies are very peaceful and extremely sociable. They are ideal for community tanks with other calm species. Males can occasionally harass females, which is why a preponderance of females is recommended.
Keeping conditions:
A well-planted aquarium with free swimming space is ideal. Platies like hard to medium-hard water and a moderate current. Regular water changes and a balanced diet ensure vitality and colourfulness.
Breeding:
Platies are viviparous. Females give birth every 4-6 weeks. Dense planting increases the survival rate of the young, as adult platies can sometimes stalk. Breeding is also easy in a community tank.
Special features:
Very robust and beginner-friendly. Wide variety of colours and shapes. Fits perfectly in community tanks. Breeds easily and regularly
Conclusion:
The Platy is a colourful, active and uncomplicated aquarium fish that is ideal for beginners and community aquariums. With stable water values, varied food and a small group, it shows its full potential and ensures lively activity in the aquarium.
If you have any questions or encounter any problems, our trained team at Zoo Roco is here to help. They can provide expert advice on all matters.
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