Assorted Platy

Description

The brightly colored Platy fish have remained very popular among aquarists for good reason. Although they are rarely found in purple, Platies come in almost every color of the rainbow as well as black and white. They are very peaceful, which makes them great community fish, but they will happily live with their own kind as well. The aquarist can keep a complete rainbow of coloration housing just this one type of fish!

Platies are members of the Xiphophorus genus. Three species are commonly available to the hobbyist. These are the Southern Platy Xiphophorus maculatus, also known as Common Platy or Moonfish, the Variatus Platy or Variable Platyfish Xiphophorus variatus, and their close relative the Swordtail Xiphophorus helleri. A rare to obtain but also stunning species is the Swordtail Platy Xiphophorus xiphidium, which features a small extension on the tail.

The Southern and Variatus Platies are both short, stocky fish, though the Variatus is slimmer and more elongated. Both varieties also lack the extended tail fin or “sword” of the Swordtail. Common types of Southern Platy are the Comet, Two-spot, Halfmoon, Moon, Salt and Pepper or Pepper and Salt, Coral, Blue Mirror, Bleeding Heart, and of course the popular Mickey Mouse Platy. Common types of Variatus Platies are the Sunset Platy, Marigold Platy, and Hawaii Platy.

These species have been intensely hybridized with each other as well as the Swordtail, making a true bred fish rare. It is now even hard to distinguish among the species. Color and fin shapes vary wildly, but in general if the male has a sword-shaped tail, they are called Swordtails and are otherwise labeled Platy. This interbreeding has produced a plethora of exciting variations. Today, Platies come in just about all colors and mixtures of colors. The many beautiful variations give the aquarist a wide selection!

The Platy is one of the best beginner fish and an excellent addition to a community. They are active, very hardy, and will breed readily in the home aquarium. The males in particular stay small, so they are suitable for even small aquariums. This fish is available just about everywhere at a very reasonable price.

The Platy is not finicky about conditions. As long as the aquarium water is clean and within their water chemistry and temperature tolerance, the Platy will rarely have issues. Some planting of the aquarium is appreciated as it mimics this species’ natural habitat.