Variatus Hi Fin Red Tail Black Platy

Introduction

The Variatus Hi Fin Red Tail Black Platy is a stunning and lively freshwater fish that is a variety of the common platy. Known for its unique coloration and distinctive fin shape, this fish adds a splash of vibrancy to any aquarium. The high-fin variety gives it a graceful look, with its red tail standing out against its dark body. This fish is not only visually striking but also peaceful and easy to care for, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and seasoned aquarists.

Scientific Name

Xiphophorus variatus

Common Name

Variatus Hi Fin Red Tail Black Platy

Water Quality and Temperature

To maintain the health of your Variatus Hi Fin Red Tail Black Platy, it’s essential to provide the following water conditions:

• Temperature: 72°F-78°F (22°C-26°C)
• pH Level: 7.0-8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
• Water Hardness: 6-12 dGH (moderately hard water)
• Filtration: Moderate filtration to keep the water clean, but avoid strong currents.
• Water Changes: Regular water changes (20-30% every 1-2 weeks) to keep the water parameters stable and healthy.

Feeding

The Variatus Hi Fin Red Tail Black Platy is an omnivore and enjoys a varied diet:

• Staple Diet:
• High-quality flake food or pellets designed for livebearers.
• Live/Frozen Foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
• Vegetables: Blanched spinach, zucchini, and algae-based foods can be provided to supplement their diet.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts 2-3 times a day, ensuring they can finish the food within a few minutes.

Tank Mates

The Variatus Hi Fin Red Tail Black Platy is peaceful and makes an excellent addition to community tanks:

• Compatible Tank Mates:
  • Other peaceful species, such as tetras, guppies, mollies, and Corydoras catfish.
  • Other platies, particularly those with similar temperaments and sizes.
• Avoid:
  • Aggressive or fin-nipping species, as they can stress or harm the platies.
  • Very small fish that may be eaten or harassed.

Substrates and Tank Decorations

• Substrate: Soft gravel or Sand , or a planted tank substrate is ideal.
• Decorations: Provide plants, rocks, and driftwood for hiding spaces and to mimic natural habitats. Platies enjoy swimming among plants.
• Water Flow: Moderate water flow is preferable, as they prefer calmer waters with gentle currents.

Suitable Plants

The Variatus Hi Fin Red Tail Black Platy thrives in a tank with live plants. Suitable plants include:

• Java Moss
• Anubias
• Java Fern
• Amazon Swords
• Hornwort

Sexing

• Males: Males are typically smaller than females, with more colorful tails and a modified anal fin called a gonopodium, which is used for reproduction.
• Females: Females are larger, rounder, and more subdued in color. They also have a more rounded anal fin.

Breeding

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Spawning Behavior: As livebearers, the Variatus Hi Fin Red Tail Black Platy gives birth to live fry instead of laying eggs. The male will court the female by displaying his gonopodium.
• Fry Care: Fry are usually born fully formed and can swim immediately. They should be fed infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp until they are large enough to eat crushed flakes.

Maximum Size and Longevity

• Size: Approximately 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)
• Lifespan: 3-5 years with proper care.

General Information

The Variatus Hi Fin Red Tail Black Platy is a hardy fish that adapts well to a variety of water conditions. They are peaceful, active, and easy to care for, making them an ideal choice for beginners. Their high-fin structure, along with the striking red tail, makes them particularly eye-catching in aquariums. Being livebearers, they are also quite prolific, and with the right care, they can breed in a well-maintained aquarium.

A Fun Fact

The platy is one of the most popular livebearers in the aquarium hobby due to its beautiful colors and ease of care. The “Hi Fin” variety adds an extra touch of elegance, and the unique red tail of the Variatus Hi Fin Red Tail Black Platy makes it stand out among other livebearer species.