Platies (Xiphophorus maculatus and Xiphophorus variatus) are small, peaceful, and vibrant freshwater fish. They’re ideal for beginners and community tanks.
🧬 Basic Description
| Feature |
Details |
| Scientific Name |
Xiphophorus maculatus, X. variatus
|
| Origin |
Central America (Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras) |
| Lifespan |
3–4 years (with proper care) |
| Size |
2–2.5 inches (5–6.5 cm) |
| Temperament |
Peaceful, active |
| Color Varieties |
Red, orange, blue, gold, black, tuxedo, sunset, dalmatian |
🌿 Tank Requirements
| Parameter |
Ideal Range |
| Tank Size |
10 gallons minimum (20+ preferred for groups) |
| Water Temperature |
70–78°F (21–26°C) |
| pH Level |
7.0–8.3 |
| Water Hardness |
Moderately hard (10–28 dGH) |
| Filtration |
Moderate flow, stable filtration |
🍽️ Feeding
Platies are omnivorous, and their diet should include:
-
High-quality flake or micro-pellet food
-
Vegetable matter (like blanched spinach or peas)
-
Frozen/live foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms)
-
Algae wafers
Feed 1–2 times per day. Only provide as much as they can eat in a few minutes.
👶 Breeding
-
Livebearers: Like mollies, platies give birth to live fry.
-
Gestation: ~28 days
-
Fry Protection: Use breeding boxes or lots of live plants like hornwort or java moss to protect the babies.
-
Reproduction Note: Platies breed easily. If you have males and females, expect regular births.
👥 Tank Mates
Platies are very social and do well with other peaceful fish such as:
-
Mollies
-
Guppies
-
Swordtails
-
Corydoras
-
Tetras (non-aggressive)
-
Danios
-
Shrimp and snails
Avoid fin-nippers or aggressive species.
⚠️ Common Health Issues
| Problem |
Cause/Prevention |
| Fin Rot |
Caused by poor water quality → Regular maintenance |
| Ich (white spots) |
Stress or poor conditions → Treat with aquarium salt or medication |
| Overbreeding |
Too many males or few females → Keep proper ratios (2–3 females per male) |
💡 Tips for Healthy Platies
-
Weekly water changes (25–30%) are essential.
-
Keep in groups of at least 3–6.
-
Ensure hiding spots (plants, decorations) to reduce stress.
-
Use a lid—platies can jump occasionally.
-
Don't overstock the tank.
