Breeding Southern Platyfish (Xiphophorus Maculatus) In The Aquarium

Location

This freshwater species lives in ponds and low current areas of rivers with loads of plants in Mexico and Guatemala.

Body description

Colour of wild fish is olive-brown with blue shine. There is also several multi-colour variants of this fish which can be found in the artificial conditions. The most popular are red-black and orange with characteristic black tail. This species is smaller and thicker than species of swordtails. It doesn't have elongated rays of the tail compared to swordtails. Male is smaller and thinner than female. He has gonopodium – external copulatory organ.

Temperament and behaviour

Temperament of these fish is calmer compared to behaviour of the swordtails but males also are aggressive towards each other. They fight for their territory. These fish prefers to live in pairs.

Aquarium decoration

The aquarium should include a lot of plants, floating plants, space to swim. Water in the tank should be clean.

Breeding

This is a live-bearer species and it breeds the same as swordtails. Female gives birth to 20-100 offspring. You should keep the fry in a separate aquarium because female can eat it.