EN ▾
ZH
Variable platy
More elongated than southern platies; sunset and other labels describe trade forms.
More elongated than southern platies.
- Adult length
- Up to 5 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
- Water temperature
- 20–26 °C
- Lifespan
- About 3 years
- pH
- 7–8.2
- Hardness
- 14–30 dGH
- Natural habitat
- Inhabits springs, weedy canals and ditches.
Cooler-water tolerance depends on stock; not every unheated tank suits it.
Appearance and identification
Wild variatus are more elongated than X. maculatus, with a slightly longer dorsal. Sunset labels describe trade colour, while selected high-fin forms change the outline. Males are smaller and have a gonopodium.
Same-species behaviour
Persistent male pursuit occurs in mixed-sex groups; keep several females per male with dense refuge. Retain swimming space and monitor pursuit.
Space requirements
Allow a 60 × 30 cm base; plan around adults, swimming room and offspring.
Diet and feeding
Offer a varied omnivorous diet.
Compatibility limits
A peaceful community candidate, but companion size, behaviour and water requirements need checking. Hybridization with maculatus or swordtails is possible; keep lines separate when preservation matters.
Aquarium environment
Provide planted cover.
Similar and related fish
