Description

Bumblebee Platy (Xiphophorus maculatus)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Xiphophorus maculatus

• Common Names: Bumblebee Platy, Yellow-Black Platy, Bee Platy

• Family: Poeciliidae

• Order: Cyprinodontiformes

• Origin: Central America — Mexico, Belize, and Honduras (selectively bred in aquariums worldwide)

• Size: 4 – 6 cm (1.5 – 2.5 inches)

• Lifespan: 3 – 5 years

• Tank Zone: Middle to top

🌊 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)

• pH: 7.0 – 8.2

• Hardness: 10 – 25 dGH

🐠 Characteristics

• Body Shape: Oval, streamlined body with slightly rounded fins.

• Coloration: Striking yellow and black bands or patches, resembling a bumblebee’s pattern. Some strains have golden hues with bold black mid-body or tail markings.

• Fins: Rounded dorsal and caudal fins; semi-transparent or dark-edged.

• Behavior: Peaceful, curious, and very social — great for community setups.

• Special Feature: The unique contrasting yellow-black coloration gives this fish its playful “Bumblebee” name and makes it stand out in planted aquariums.

🍽️ Diet

• Type: Omnivorous

• Diet: High-quality flakes, micro-pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and blanched vegetables (spinach, cucumber, peas).

• Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily in small amounts.

🛠️ Tank Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 40 liters (10 gallons) for a small group.

• Filtration: Moderate flow; ensure clean and stable water.

• Substrate: Fine gravel or sand.

• Decor: Planted aquarium with rocks, driftwood, and open swimming space.

• Lighting: Moderate lighting to enhance yellow body tones.

• Water Change: 25–30% weekly.

👥 Social Behavior

• Nature: Peaceful and community-friendly.

• Tank Mates: Guppies, Mollies, Swordtails, Corydoras, Tetras, and Rasboras.

• Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping species.

• Breeding: Livebearer — females give birth to fry; easy to breed in planted tanks.

✅ Do’s
• Keep in groups (3 or more).
• Offer color-enhancing foods for brighter yellow tones.
• Provide hiding spots for fry protection.

❌ Don’ts
• Don’t keep with aggressive fish.
• Avoid poor water conditions.
• Don’t overfeed.

⭐ Quick Tip:
The Bumblebee Platy is a lively, peaceful, and beautifully patterned livebearer that adds contrast and personality to any freshwater aquarium. Its bold yellow-and-black markings make it an eye-catching favorite among aquarists of all experience levels.