Platy Mix

The platy originally comes from Central America and is one of the most popular aquarium fish. Its natural range extends from Mexico through Guatemala to Honduras. There are now countless breeding forms of the platy. The animals in this mix can therefore be very variable in color.

Care in the aquarium

Thanks to its adaptability to a wide range of water parameters and its easy handling, the platy is also well suited for beginners. Xiphophorus maculatus requires an aquarium volume of at least 60 liters or an edge length of at least 60 cm as well as dense edge plants, roots or stone structures in order to be able to retreat if necessary. There should still be enough free swimming space for this lively fish. Even though the platy is not a schooling fish, it is still very sociable and should be kept in a group of at least 5 animals. When keeping males and females in a mixed manner, the number of females should exceed the number of males, as the male animals often harass the females and this can often lead to stressful situations.

Feeding

As an omnivore, the platy readily accepts all conventional types of fish food in the appropriate size as well as small frozen and live food.

Sexual characteristics and breeding

Easily distinguishable from the smaller, slimmer and often particularly colorful males are the significantly larger and more rounded females, which are sometimes more discreetly colored. Platy reproduction is also very easy in the aquarium. They are viviparous fish, meaning they do not lay eggs but rather give birth to fully developed young. This very reproductive fish can produce around 80 offspring every 30 – 40 days.