Description

Coral Red Platy (Xiphophorus maculatus)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Xiphophorus maculatus

• Common Names: Coral Red Platy, Red Platy, Red Wag Platy

• Family: Poeciliidae

• Order: Cyprinodontiformes

• Origin: Central America — Mexico, Belize, and Honduras (aquarium-bred varieties 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: Slender, oval body typical of platies.

• Coloration: Vibrant coral-red body with a shimmering finish; some strains may show darker fins or tails.

• Fins: Rounded dorsal and caudal fins; males have a gonopodium (modified anal fin).

• Behavior: Active, peaceful, and very hardy — perfect for beginners.

• Special Feature: Selectively bred for its intense coral-red coloration and consistent brightness under aquarium lighting.

🍽️ Diet

• Type: Omnivorous

• Diet: High-quality flakes, micro-pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms, and blanched vegetables (like zucchini or spinach).

• 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 with stable, clean water.

• Substrate: Fine gravel or sand.

• Decor: Live plants, driftwood, and stones — they enjoy open swimming areas with some cover.

• Lighting: Moderate; enhances coral-red coloration.

• Water Change: 25–30% weekly.

👥 Social Behavior

• Nature: Peaceful and social; thrives in community tanks.

• Tank Mates: Guppies, Mollies, Swordtails, Corydoras, small Tetras.

• Avoid: Aggressive fish or fin-nippers.

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

✅ Do’s
• Keep in small groups (3 or more).
• Feed a balanced, color-enhancing diet.
• Provide plants or floating cover for fry.

❌ Don’ts
• Avoid overcrowding the tank.
• Don’t keep with large or aggressive fish.
• Avoid overfeeding — can lead to poor water quality.

⭐ Quick Tip:
The Coral Red Platy is one of the most colorful and easy-to-keep livebearers, perfect for beginners and community aquariums. Its bright coral-red tone and peaceful nature make it a favorite for planted and decorative setups.