Variatus Platy (Xiphophorus variatus)

Fish in the family Poeciliidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Variatus Platy

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.