Our Guide To Keeping Catemaco Platy Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Xiphophorus milleri
   • Common name: Catemaco Platy
   • Family: Poeciliidae
   • Origin: Lake Catemaco, Veracruz, Mexico
   • Adult length: 4 to 6 cm
   • Lifespan: 2 to 3 years
   • Diet: Omnivore
   • Care Level: Easy
   • Temperament: Peaceful

2. Tank Setup:

   • A minimum tank size of 40L is ideal for a small group of Catemaco Platys.
   • Decorate with live plants such as Hornwort, Java Fern, and Water Sprite for cover and comfort.
   • Use fine gravel or sand substrate and add hiding spaces with rocks or driftwood.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Catemaco Platys prefer slightly alkaline water with a pH between 7.0 and 8.2.
   • Maintain water temperatures from 22 to 26°C (72 to 79°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Use a filter with gentle to moderate flow to mimic their native environment.
   • Regular water changes and stable conditions are essential for their health.

5. Diet:

   • Feed a balanced diet of high-quality flakes or micro-pellets as a staple.
   • Supplement with blanched vegetables such as spinach and zucchini.
   • Offer live or frozen foods like daphnia and brine shrimp for variety.

6. Tank mates:

   • Catemaco Platys do well with other peaceful livebearers, tetras, rasboras, and bottom dwellers like corydoras.
   • Avoid housing them with aggressive or overly boisterous fish.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • They are lively and sociable, often best kept in small groups with more females than males.
   • Catemaco Platys are active swimmers and thrive in a well-planted, stable environment.