Platy – Xiphophorus Maculatus

Introduction

Platys are peaceful, hardy, active and very colorful.

In number they can effectively move a drab aquarium. They have a very curious personality, and will explore all levels of the tank. They are also suitable for Nano Tanks.

Maximum size
Usually around 4 to 6 cm in length, with females occasionally growing a little longer, to a maximum of 8 cm.

Water quality
Temperature: 24°C – 28°C.
PH: 7.0-8.0
General hardness: 200—300 ppm.

They prefer slightly alkaline water but are generally able to tolerate a wide range of water qualities and are quite hardy.

Coloring
The species has many color varieties like red, black, blue, yellow, wagtail, tuxedo, neon, mickey-mouse and many more.

Aquarium Setup
An easy-to-care fish that does well in all types of community aquariums. A good-sized aquarium with live plants and open areas.

food
Platys eat most aquarium fish foods and also feed on any algae that grows inside the aquarium. They will benefit from a varied diet.

They can also be kept in outdoor ponds to control mosquito levels and algae levels.

reproduction
Platys are viviparous, which means that females give birth to a fully formed and free-swimming baby about 30 days after fertilization.
Sexes can be easily distinguished; the male’s anal fin is modified to form the Gonopodium (the male sexual organ).