Platies are a popular beginner's fish because of their hardiness and the ease with which they breed.  Platies originally came from clear waters in Central America.  Although originally a drab olive green in appearance, they have been bred into a number of variations, such as the Tuxedo (black on the body), Wagtail (black on the tail), Mickey Mouse (see above), Red and Sunset Platies.  They are closely related to the Swordtail, but lack the extension at the bottom of the tail fin.  In fact Swordtails and Platies can interbreed.  They eat flake foods, but will enjoy live brine shrimp and bloodworms.

More than one female should be kept with each male, to help reduce the stress on females from harassment by the male.  Males have a gonopodium which is used to fertilize the female.  Females are larger and broader.  One fertilization can result in several sets of births.  When pregnant, females have a dark gravid spot near their anal fin.  Females can have young every 4 to 6 weeks.  They will seek an area of seclusion to give birth and can have anywhere from 10 to more than 50 young.  Platies will eat their young, so it is important to either have a heavy plant cover or a separate breeding tank.  Java moss will work well or a simple plastic breeding trap can be purchased at aquarium stores.  The young can be fed finely crushed flake food.

Tim's Tropical Fish Information about freshwater and saltwater tropical fish, fish care, fish facts, compatibility and aquarium maintenance.