Coral Red Platy

Common Name: Red Coral Platy

Latin name: Xiphophorus maculatus

Latin Name Translation: Xiphophorus translates to “sword-carrier,” referring to the sword-like extension on the male’s tail. Maculatus means “spotted” in Latin, indicating the species’ characteristic spots.

Synonyms: None

Distribution: The Red Coral Platy is a selectively bred variant of the common Platy (Xiphophorus maculatus), which is native to Central America, particularly Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala.

Max size: Red Coral Platies typically grow to a maximum size of around 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) in length.

Lifespan: On average, Red Coral Platies have a lifespan of 2 to 3 years, although with proper care, they can live up to 4 years.

Temperature range: Red Coral Platies thrive in water temperatures between 70°F and 80°F (21°C – 27°C).

pH Range: They prefer a slightly alkaline to neutral pH range of 7.0 to 8.0.

Kh Range: Red Coral Platies can tolerate a wide range of carbonate hardness (KH) levels, typically between 5 to 20 dKH.

Care level: Red Coral Platies are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for beginner fish keepers.

Lighting preference: They do well with moderate lighting levels in the aquarium.

Suitable for planted tanks: Red Coral Platies are compatible with planted tanks and can coexist with live aquatic plants.

Preferred food: They are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods, including high-quality flake or pellet foods, as well as live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms.

Behaviour: Red Coral Platies are peaceful and social fish that are known for their active and lively nature. They are typically non-aggressive and can be kept in community aquariums with other peaceful fish species.