Poeciliidaefreshwater fishbeginner

Red Platy

Xiphophorus maculatus

Origin: Central America (cultivated variety)

R

Water Parameters

Temperature1828 °C
15 °C35 °C
pH78.5
49
GH (Hardness)820 °dGH
0 °dGH30 °dGH
KH (Alkalinity)515 °dKH
0 °dKH20 °dKH

Quick Stats

Max Size
6 cm
Min Tank
60 L
Lifespan
3-5
Swimming Level
middle
Schooling
No
Diet
omnivore
Temperament
peaceful; compatible with virtually all community fish; prolific livebearer — separate fry to avoid predation

About

The Red Platy is a vivid, uniformly red livebearer and one of the most popular beginner fish worldwide. Hardy, adaptable, and prolific, it thrives in a wide range of water conditions and breeds readily without any intervention. Its bold red coloration, easy care, and peaceful nature make it an ideal first fish for community aquariums and beginner setups.

Care Guide

Minimum 60 L. pH 7.0–8.5, GH 8–20, KH 5–15, temperature 18–28°C. Feed quality flake, micro pellets, and occasional vegetable matter. Very adaptable to varied water conditions. Livebearers breed readily — provide plant cover if fry survival is desired. Compatible with virtually all peaceful community fish. Prefers slightly alkaline, harder water.

Buy Red Platy from FinsHQ shops

Shops currently listing this species with stock available

No shops are currently listing Red Platy. List your shop on FinsHQ.
Built for aquarium retailers

Sell Red Platy in your shop?

Join aquarium shops already using FinsHQ. Get a beautiful webshop, mobile app, and inventory management — built for aquatic retailers.

Start your free store