Guide
Platy fish care guide
Platies are colourful, peaceful livebearers. Tank size, water, feeding, and tank mates.
Tank size and setup
Platies do well in 10 gallons or more. Keep them in groups of five or so; they are social. Heater (mid-70s °F) and filter required. They enjoy planted tanks and open swimming space. See how to set up a fish tank and cycling.
Water parameters
They tolerate a range of pH (around 7–8) and medium hardness. Keep ammonia and nitrite at zero and nitrate low. Test regularly and log results (e.g. in App-aquatic).
Feeding
Omnivores: quality flake or pellet plus occasional veg or small live/frozen food. Avoid overfeeding; one or two small feeds per day is enough.
Breeding
Livebearers: they have babies easily. If you keep males and females, expect fry. Plan for rehoming or extra tank space, or keep single-sex groups. See breeding for more.
Tank mates
Peaceful community fish: other livebearers (guppies, mollies), tetras, rasboras, corydoras. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species. See community tank fish.
Quick takeaways
- 10+ gallons, group of five or more, heater and filter.
- Stable water; avoid overfeeding; they breed easily.
- Good with other peaceful community fish.
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