Overview

Assorted colour forms of the platy, a Central American livebearer. Adults reach around 5–6cm; ornamental strains may include related-species ancestry.

Scientific name: Xiphophorus maculatus

Behaviour

Keep a small group. In mixed-sex groups provide two or three females per male so attention is not concentrated on one female. Females can produce fry after purchase.

Tank Size

Our recommended minimum is 60 litres and a 60 × 30cm base for a small group; 80–100 litres is preferable for a community or growing population.

These are adult housing recommendations; choose more space when adding tank mates. Allow for space occupied by substrate and décor when comparing aquarium capacities.

Compatibility

Good with peaceful fish sharing moderately hard, alkaline conditions. Avoid predatory cichlids and very soft-water specialists.

Diet

Use small omnivore flakes or pellets with spirulina or other plant ingredients. Supplement with daphnia or brine shrimp; feed modest portions.

Care

• Temperature: 20–26°C
• pH: 7.0–8.2
• General hardness: 10–25 dGH

Plant the back and sides and retain an open front area. Do not soften the water to suit incompatible tank mates. Check stocking as fry grow and arrange suitable homes before numbers become excessive.

Add only to a fully cycled aquarium. Keep ammonia and nitrite at 0mg/l. Start with a 25–30% weekly water change using dechlorinated, temperature-matched water and adjust to test results and stocking. Rinse biological filter media in removed aquarium water rather than under the tap.

Live Animals Are Click and Collect Only. You can order online, choose click and collect, and we will hold your order for collection in store.