Platies Species

The Platy fish, or Platies, are a group of livebearers in the family Poeciliidae. They are very closely related the Swordtails, Guppies and Mollies. While there are numerous species of platies, there are typically only two encountered in the pet trade and they have been frequently crossbred to develop different aquarium strains. They are very popular aquarium fish due to their bright colors, array of patterns and sociable nature.

The Platies come in a wide variety of colors, with many different strains being sold in pet shops. Some of the more commonly encountered strains include the Red Platy, Pineapple Platy, Blue Micky Mouse Platy and Red Wag Platy.

Biology

Platies are native to Central America where they are found in many different river drainages throughout their native region. They are small fish reaching an approximate size of 2.5” (7 cm).

Like all livebearers in the Poeciliidae family, Platies give birth to live young. Male Platies have a modified anal fin that is used for mating. Female Platies can give birth to live young approximately every thirty days.

Captive Care

Platies can make great aquarium inhabitants, provided their husbandry needs such as diet, water quality and tank space are met.

Platies can tolerate a wide range of water temperatures, though the prefer slightly cooler waters and do well at a range of 61F (16C) to 75F (24C).

Platies do well in community tanks, provided they are not kept with large or overly aggressive fish. As with most live bearers, it is generally suggested to keep Platies at a ratio of two to three females for every male. The males can become quite boisterous during courtship, so having several females helps spread out the male’s attentions.

Suggested Piscine Energetics Products

We suggest a diet based on Piscine Energetics Frozen Mysis, Piscine Energetics Frozen Calanus, Piscine Energetics Freshwater Pellets (1mm) and Piscine Energetics Freshwater Flakes.