Platy - Xiphophorus maculatus

Scientific Name : Xiphophorus maculatus Care Level : Easy, good first fish for freshwater fish beginners Size : 2 inches (5 cm) pH : 7 - 8 Temperature : 65°F - 78°F (18°C - 26°C) Water Hardness : 10° to 25° dH Origin / Habitat : Central America Lifespan : 2 - 3 years Platy Temperament / Behavior : This is a good tropical fish for the beginner. They are a very peaceful tropical fish. Also, it can be a good idea to have two females for every one male. Doing this will prevent the male from harassing a single female. Platy Breeding : They are livebearers which means that a pregnant platy the babies can swim immediately after birth. Usually, not much effort is required to get them to breed. If you have a male and a female, chances are they will breed. The parents must be separated from the young after birth. Aquarium Size : 10 gallon or larger. Platy Compatible Tank Mates : They make an excellent fish for a community tank given their peaceful nature. Diet / Foods : Give them a varied diet consisting of flakes, live and freeze dried foods for optimum health. Tank Region : All over the aquarium Gender : The female is usually bigger than a male of the same age. The male Platy also has a modified anal fin called a gonopodium. Available in sunset, gold , gold red, and metallic red