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The Platy, also known as the Moonfish or Southern Platyfish, comes in many colors, the most common being a brilliant red. The fins may also vary in length and color. Some variations are the Wagtail, Blue Mirror, Simpson Tuxedo, and Simpson Coral Platy to name a few. Platies add brilliant colors to the aquarium as well as being very easy to keep, making it a great fish for beginners and accomplished aquarists alike.
The Platy requires a tank of at least 15 gallons that is densely planted with hardy plants like Java Fern and Java Moss. It is a very peaceful fish and makes an excellent addition to the community tank. Any other peaceful fish can be housed with platies.
The Platy is a livebearer and is capable of reproducing at three to four months of age. The male is smaller and more brightly colored than the female, and can be distinguished by his gonopodium. The fry will most often reach maturity in a community tank.
The Platy is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flaked foods and algae, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Ideal tank mates include: Guppies, Platies, Mollies, Swordtails, Tetras, Rasboras, Danios, Rainbowfish, Angelfish, Gouramis, Plecos and Scavenger Catfish.
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Name: Platy (Common Variety) (Xiphophorus maculatus)
Family: Poeciliidae Range: Eastern Mexico, Guatemala, Northern Honduras Size: Up to 2.5 inches Diet: Omnivore Tank Set-up: Freshwater: Densely planted Tank Conditions: 64-77°F; pH 7.0-8.2; dH 10-25 Minimum Tank Capacity: 15 gallons Light: Medium Temperament: Peaceful Swimming Level: Middle Care Level: Easy Reproduction: Livebearer |
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