Variatus Platy (Xiphophorus variatus)
Fish in the family Poeciliidae. Easy care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific nameXiphophorus variatus
FamilyPoeciliidae
Also known asVariable Platy, Sunset Platy, Variegated Platy
Care levelEasy
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentPeaceful
DietOmnivore
Adult size2.5 in
Minimum tank size15 gallons
Water parametersTemp 60-78°F, pH 7-8.3, GH 10-28 dGH
Appearance
Hardy livebearer in a huge range of colors (sunset, red, yellow, marigold). More elongate than the southern platy and tolerant of cooler water.
Difficulty and care for the Variatus Platy
Easy
Origin and habitat
Mexico
Keeper notes
Peaceful and social; keep in groups with more females than males to reduce mating harassment. Safe with shrimp and gentle community fish.
Log Variatus Platy in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Variatus Platy alongside everything else in your reef.