Assorted Variatus Platy (Xiphophorus variatus) is the wild species ancestor of many modern platy varieties — a naturally variable, colorful livebearer from the highland rivers and streams of eastern Mexico. Unlike the common Southern Platy (X. maculatus) that dominates the pet trade, X. variatus is a distinct species with its own natural color variability — wild populations display an extraordinary range of colors from yellow and orange to blue-green, red, and spotted patterns, with males developing particularly vibrant coloration as they mature. The "Assorted" designation means each shipment contains a mix of the natural color forms, making every tank a unique display of naturally occurring variation. Collected at 4.5 cm — near adult size — these are well-established, fully colored specimens.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Pellets make an excellent daily staple for Variatus Platies. Supplement with Hikari Algae Wafers (they graze algae enthusiastically) and Hikari Frozen Bloodworms 2–3 times per week for conditioning. Being from cooler highland streams, Variatus Platies benefit from a slightly varied, nutrient-rich diet to maintain their vivid coloration.
Xiphophorus variatus is notably hardier and more tolerant of cooler temperatures than most tropical fish — in the wild it inhabits highland rivers where temperatures can drop significantly, making it an excellent choice for subtropical setups and aquariums kept at the lower end of the tropical range. This adaptability, combined with the species' natural color variability, makes it particularly interesting for aquarists seeking something beyond the standard pet store platy.
Completely peaceful, active, and endlessly entertaining — Variatus Platies swim at all levels of the aquarium and interact constantly with their environment and tankmates. Livebearers that reproduce readily in captivity; if keeping mixed sexes, floating plants or breeding traps will help protect fry. Compatible with virtually all peaceful community fish — tetras, rasboras, corydoras, small gouramis, and other livebearers all make excellent tankmates.
| Difficulty | Easy — Excellent Beginner Fish |
| Temperament | Peaceful — Active Community Livebearer |
| Typical Adult Size | 2–2.5 inches (5–6 cm) |
| Ideal Temp | 65–78°F (18–26°C) — tolerates cooler water |
| Ideal pH | 7.0–8.0 |
| Ideal GH | 10–25 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 5–15 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Micro Pellets; Hikari Algae Wafers |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen Bloodworms |
| Origin | Highland rivers and streams — eastern Mexico (Río Soto la Marina system) |
| Notes | True species — not a hybrid cultivar. Naturally variable color patterns. Tolerates significantly cooler temperatures than most tropical fish. Livebearer — reproduces readily. Collected at 4.5 cm near-adult size. |
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