Description
Species Profile
Scientific Name: Xiphophorus maculatus
Common Name: Platy Assorted
Adult Size: Up to 2.5 inches (6.5 cm)
Life Expectancy: 2–3 years (can live longer with excellent care)
Habitat: Native to Central America – still and slow-moving waters like streams, canals, ponds, and marshes rich in vegetation
Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (bigger is better for groups)
Ideal Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
pH Range: 7.0–8.2
Water Hardness: 10–28 dGH (moderately hard to hard water)
Temperament: Peaceful, social, and active
Best kept in groups (males may chase females, so a ratio of 1 male to 2–3 females is ideal)
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Eats flakes, pellets, vegetable matter (blanched spinach, peas), and live/frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia)
Feed 1–2 times daily in small amounts
