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Platy Fish (Xiphophorus)
Platy Fish ( Xiphophorus ) Quick Stats : Minimum Tank Size: 10 Gallons (45 Litres) Care Level: Easy Water Conditions: 7-8.5 pH and Medium to Hard Temperature: 20-26 °C (68-79 °F) Maximum Size: 2 1/2 Inches (6 cm ) T he common platy ( Xiphophorus ), also known as the southern platy fish or mickey mouse platy is a small, popular live-bearing fish. It is native to North America and Central America and can be found from central Mexico to Belize. But like many other live bearers, it is now listed as an invasive species in several countries, and is still spreading through escapes and releases. Platies are closely related to the commonly kept green swordtail, and they will interbreed if given the chance. It should come as no surprise that they share similar habitats, and platies can be found in slow moving streams, ponds, canals and drainage ditches. They stay relatively small in the home aquarium, and both males and females grow to a maximum size of around 2 ½ inches (6