Platy - Red Coral Balloon

Platy fish are small, peaceful, and vibrant freshwater livebearers native to Central America. Growing to just 5-7 cm in length, they are highly popular beginner aquarium fish due to their hardiness, varied colors, and ease of breeding. They thrive in community tanks with a varied omnivorous diet.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Xiphophorus maculatus and Xiphophorus variatus
• Lifespan: 3 to 5 years
• Size: 5 to 7 cm
• Temperament: Highly peaceful and social

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 38 Litres (10 gallons)
• Water Temperature: 21°C to 28°C (70°F to 82°F)
• pH Level: 7.0 to 8.3
• Environment: Include live plants and open swimming spaces

Diet & Care

Platies are omnivores that readily eat high-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and frozen or freeze-dried foods like bloodworms. They also enjoy nibbling on naturally occurring tank algae.

Breeding

As livebearers, females give birth to free-swimming live young (fry) rather than laying eggs. They breed very easily; to prevent rapid overpopulation or female harassment, maintain a male-to-female ratio of 1:3.

Compatible Tank Mates

Platies make excellent community fish. Good companions include:

• Guppies
• Mollies
• Tetras
• Corydoras Catfish

Note: Avoid highly aggressive fish like large cichlids.