Wagtail Platy is a vibrant freshwater fish with a colorful body and bold black tail, ideal for peaceful community tanks. Hardy, lively, and beginner-friendly!

Detailed Product Description (Over 500 Words):

Overview

• The Wagtail Platy (Xiphophorus maculatus) is a stunning and lively freshwater fish, famous for its colorful body paired with a solid black tail and sometimes black fins. This contrast creates a "wagtail" effect, making them one of the most eye-catching platy varieties. Hardy, peaceful, and very easy to care for, Wagtail Platies are perfect for aquarists of all levels, bringing both color and energy to any freshwater community aquarium.

Appearance

• Wagtail Platies have vibrant body colors that can range from red, orange, yellow, gold, to even blue and green hues — always paired with their characteristic solid black tail fin (and sometimes black dorsal and pelvic fins).
• Their bold, two-tone look adds dramatic visual interest to any aquarium.
• Size: Grows up to 2.5 inches (6.5 cm) when fully matured.
• Lifespan: Typically 2–4 years, potentially longer under excellent care conditions.

Ideal Water Conditions

• Temperature: 22°C – 28°C (72°F – 82°F)
• pH Level: 7.0 – 8.2
• Water Hardness: 10 – 28 dGH
• Tank Size: Minimum 40 liters (10 gallons); however, a larger tank of 60 liters or more is recommended to create a thriving group setup and stable water parameters.
• Good filtration and consistent weekly water changes (20–25%) are key to maintaining healthy and vibrant Wagtail Platies.

Tank Setup Recommendations

• Provide a mix of open swimming spaces and lushly planted areas. Suitable plants include Java Fern, Vallisneria, Water Wisteria, and Anubias.
• A soft substrate such as sand or fine gravel promotes a natural feel and easy maintenance.
• Add natural décor like driftwood, smooth rocks, and caves to offer hiding spots and reduce stress.
• Moderate lighting helps enhance their bold body and tail coloration.

Compatible Tank Mates
Wagtail Platies are peaceful, active fish that thrive in community aquariums alongside other gentle species. Great companions include:

• Other Platies (including Hi Fin, Mickey, Moon, and Marble Platies)
• Guppies
• Mollies
• Swordtails
• Tetras (Neon, Ember, Rummy Nose Tetras)
• Corydoras Catfish
• Rasboras (e.g., Harlequin Rasbora, Lambchop Rasbora)
• Peaceful dwarf Gouramis
• Shrimp (e.g., Amano, Cherry) and snails (e.g., Nerite Snails)

Avoid aggressive, nippy species such as Tiger Barbs or large Cichlids that may harass or injure them.

Feeding Habits

• Wagtail Platies are omnivorous and highly adaptable when it comes to diet.
• Recommended foods:
  • High-quality flake foods or tropical pellets for daily nutrition
  • Occasional frozen or live treats such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia to boost their colors and vitality
  • Blanched vegetables like spinach, peas, and zucchini offered once or twice weekly to support digestion
• Feed 1–2 times daily in amounts they can finish in a few minutes, preventing leftover food from spoiling tank water.

Care Tips

• Wagtail Platies are extremely hardy but still need stable, clean water conditions to look their best and stay healthy.
• Like all platies, they are livebearers and may breed easily in a community tank. If you wish to raise fry, provide dense plant cover or a separate breeding tank.
• They are social fish and do best in small groups (3 or more), which encourages natural behavior and reduces stress.
• Watch for signs of common illnesses like ich or fin rot, and maintain regular maintenance to prevent outbreaks.

Fun Fact:

• Wagtail Platies are often used by aquascapers to create dramatic color contrasts, especially when kept with green plants and lighter substrate, where their dark tails truly pop!