Scientific Name Xiphophorus maculatus

Common Names - Many and usually based on the color patterns - Platy, Southern Platy, Red Wagtail, Mickey Mouse, Red Tuxedo, Moon Fish, Topsail Rainbow, Sunset, Golden, Calico, Salt and Pepper, Coral Red, Black, Blue, the list goes on and on and on and on.

Size - 2 inches (5 cm)

pH - 7 - 8

Temperature - 65ºF - 78ºF (18ºC - 26ºC)

Water Hardness - 10º to 25º dH

Origin - Central America

Lifespan - 2 - 3 years

Temperament - This is a good tropical fish for the beginner. They are a very peaceful tropical fish. Also, it can be a good idea to have two females for every one male. Doing this will prevent the male from harassing a single female.

Breeding / Reproduction - They are livebearers which means that the babies can swim immediately after birth. Usually, not much effort is required to get them to breed. If you have a male and a female, chances are they will breed. The parents must be separated from the young after birth. For more information on breeding them, please read the breeding livebearers article.

Tank Size -10 gallon or larger.

Compatible Tank Mates - They make an excellent fish for a community tank given their peaceful nature.



Diet / Food - Give them a varied diet consisting of flakes, live and freeze dried foods for optimum health.

Tank Region - All

Gender - The female is usually bigger than a male of the same age. Males also have a gonopodium.