The Moon (Xiphophorus maculatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The platy (Xiphophorus maculatus) is one of the most popular aquarium fishes in the world, a small livebearing fish of the family Poeciliidae from Central America. The wild form is plain olive with a few spots, but the aquarium trade has countless bright red, orange, yellow and black cultivated forms. The species reaches only about 4 cm and shows sexual dimorphism; the male has an anal fin modified into a copulatory organ (gonopodium). It inhabits warm springs, canals and ditches with slow-moving water and weedy banks. As an omnivore it feeds on worms, crustaceans, insects and algae. The species has been introduced worldwide.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Moon?
The Moon has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly multicoloured and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Moon live?
The Moon lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Moon get?
The Moon grows to a maximum of about 4 cm. On average the species is around 2 cm.
Is the Moon dangerous to humans?
No, the Moon is harmless to humans.
Is the Moon edible?
The Moon is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Xiphophorus
More from the family Poeciliidae
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