Red Wag Platy (Xiphophorus maculatus) – Tank-bred
The Red Wag Platy is an all-time classic that is colorful, peaceful, and very hardy!
The Red Wag Platy (Xiphophorus maculatus) is a classic platy variety that displays red-orange and black coloration. There are nearly endless color (and other) variants of this fish, and the Red Wag Platy is a standout. This is a very peaceful, undemanding fish that will thrive in most aquariums, especially the planted aquarium.
The Red Wag Platy is compatible with most other peaceful aquarium species. It is an omnivore, so it will potentially prey on smaller dwarf shrimp and their fry, but it is otherwise safe to keep with peaceful invertebrates as well.
| Species | Xiphophorus maculatus |
|---|---|
| Coloration | Red-orange and black |
| Breeding Type | Tank-bred |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Compatibility | Peaceful community fish |
FAQ
What is the typical coloration of the Red Wag Platy?
The Red Wag Platy displays red-orange and black coloration, making it a visually striking addition to any aquarium.
Is the Red Wag Platy suitable for a planted aquarium?
Yes, the Red Wag Platy thrives in planted aquariums and is well-suited to environments with live plants.
Does the Red Wag Platy eat small invertebrates?
Yes, as an omnivore, it may prey on smaller dwarf shrimp and their fry, so care should be taken when keeping with sensitive invertebrates.




Victoria Bower –
I’ve had the Red Wag Platy in my tank for three months now. It’s very active and colorful, and it doesn’t stress other fish. The red-orange and black pattern stands out well in the planted setup. Easy to care for and very peaceful.
Theresa Lyman –
The fish arrived healthy and stayed active after setup. I noticed it’s not aggressive and gets along well with my tetras and snails. A bit of caution with shrimp, though, as it did eat a few fry.
Melanie Parsons –
Great choice for beginners. The Red Wag Platy is hardy, vibrant, and doesn’t require much maintenance. It’s a real eye-catcher in a community tank.