Bleeding Heart Platy

The Bleeding Heart Platy is a captive-developed Xiphophorus maculatus variety characterised by a vivid orange-red blotch located on the pale flank near the base of the pectoral fin, creating a marking that resembles a small heart — hence the evocative common name. The rest of the body is white to pale silver, which maximises the contrast with the heart marking.

The blotch size and intensity varies between individuals and breeding lines, with the most desirable specimens showing a clearly defined, intensely coloured heart shape. The trait is maintained through selective breeding.

All standard platy care applies — this is a hardy, community-friendly, and prolific livebearer that requires no special treatment beyond what any platy receives.

Water: 20–26 °C, pH 7.0–8.0, moderate to hard water. Tank: 60 L minimum; bright lighting shows off the heart blotch; plants and open areas. Feeding: Omnivore; varied diet of flake, pellets, vegetables, and occasional live/frozen food. Breeding: Prolific; heart blotch intensity varies in fry; select most defined markings for breeding. Compatibility: Excellent community fish; peaceful with all non-aggressive species.