Variable Platyfish

The variable platyfish (Xiphophorus variatus) is a species of freshwater fish in family Poecilidae of order Cyprinodontiformes. A live-bearer, it is native to southern Tamaulipas and northern Veracruz states in northeastern Mexico.

The variable platyfish grows to a maximum overall length of 7.0 cm (2.8 in).

X. variatus prefers slow-moving waters of canals, ditches, and warm springs. Omnivorous, its diet includes both plants and small crustaceans, insects, and worms.

The variable platyfish is bred commercially for the aquarium hobby, and the species has been used in genetic research.

The species has been introduced and become established in a number of locales, including Colombia, Singapore, and Hong Kong, the latter of which reports a negative impact on native species; the species is considered a potential pest.

X. variatus is also known by a variety of other common names, including variable platy, variegated platy, Indian platy, parrot platy (Ger. Papageienplaty), and sunset platy.