Our Guide To Keeping Red Wagtail Platy Fish
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Xiphophorus maculatus
- Common name: Red WagtailPlaty
- Family: Poeciliidae
- Origin: Central America, from southern Mexico to Guatemala
- Adult length: 3 to 7 cm
- Lifespan: 2 to 4 years
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Tank Setup:
- Red WagtailPlaties are adaptable and can thrive in various tank sizes, but a minimum of 20L per fish is recommended to ensure adequate space.
- They appreciate a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots and open swimming areas.
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Water Parameters:
- Red WagtailPlaties prefer slightly alkaline water with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.0.
- Keep the water temperature between 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F).
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- A gentle to moderate water flow is suitable for Red Wagtailplaties, so choose a filter that provides adequate but not excessive flow.
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Diet:
- Red WagtailPlaties are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods including high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
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Tank mates:
- Red WagtailPlaties are peaceful community fish and can be kept with other peaceful species such as tetras, guppies, mollies, and peaceful barbs.
- They should not be kept with aggressive or fin-nipping species that may stress or harm them.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Red WagtailPlaties are active swimmers and are best kept in groups of at least five individuals to ensure social interaction and minimize stress.
- They are known for their peaceful nature and can coexist with a variety of tank mates.