Banana Platy (Xiphophorus variatus) Pair

Common Name

Yellow Banana Variatus Platy, Solid Yellow Platy

Origin and Habitat

The species behind this color form comes from eastern Mexico, where wild Xiphophorus variatus inhabit slow to moderate streams, ditches, ponds, and spring runs that pass through grasslands and scrub forest. These waters are usually clear to lightly turbid with gentle flow, sandy or fine gravel bottoms, scattered stones, and thick emergent or submerged plants. The Yellow Banana is a selectively bred aquarium morph that does not occur in the wild, but its care closely follows that of the wild species.

Temperature and Water Conditions

Variatus platies are adaptable and thrive in stable, clean water. Preferred temperature is 20 to 26°C, which is 68 to 79°F, with many lines showing superb vigor around the middle of that range. Wild habitats for the species span slightly alkaline chemistry, commonly pH 7.0 to 8.2. We do not recommend chasing or altering water parameters except for special breeding projects. Stable conditions and good husbandry matter far more than hitting a precise number.

Appearance and Size

This strain shows a bright lemon to canary yellow body, often with subtle orange on the fins and tail. Males are smaller, slimmer, and carry a gonopodium. Females are larger with a fuller body and may show a faint gravid spot when carrying young. Adult size is about 5 to 6 cm for most specimens, which is roughly 2 to 2.5 inches, with robust females sometimes a little larger.

Diet in the Wild

Wild variatus are opportunistic omnivores that graze on soft algae, diatoms, and biofilm while picking at small invertebrates such as insect larvae, tiny crustaceans, and worms. Constant browsing is a natural part of their daily rhythm.

Feeding in Captivity

Offer a varied mix that covers both plant and animal matter. Quality flakes or micro pellets with spirulina, blanched greens or veggie gels, and regular servings of live or frozen foods like baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and finely chopped bloodworms keep color strong and growth steady. Frequent small feedings support active grazing behavior without polluting the water.

Behavior and Tank Setup

Peaceful, lively, and social, variatus show best in groups. A planted community aquarium suits them well. Provide open swimming space at midwater, dense stems or floating plants near the surface, and gentle filtration that does not create harsh currents. Hardscape with smooth stones and fine gravel encourages natural foraging. They are generally excellent community fish with other peaceful livebearers, small rasboras, danios, dwarf rainbowfish, and gentle catfish such as Corydoras. A secure lid is smart for any active community.

Breeding

This is a livebearing species that breeds readily in home aquariums. Well conditioned females give birth after a gestation of roughly four weeks. Newborn fry are fully formed and free swimming. Adults may pick at fry, so dense plants, moss, or floating mats provide valuable refuge. A separate nursery or breeder box is optional but not required when cover is abundant. Baby brine shrimp, powdered fry food, and finely crushed flakes get growth off to a strong start.

Quick Facts

• Scientific name: Xiphophorus variatus
• Trade name: Yellow Banana Platy
• Origin: Eastern Mexico, aquarium strain for this color and fin form
• Size: About 5 to 6 cm, which is 2 to 2.5 inches
• Temperature: 20 to 26°C, which is 68 to 79°F
• pH: Common in the wild around 7.0 to 8.2, stability is more important than exact value
• Temperament: Peaceful community livebearer
• Diet: Omnivore grazer of algae and small invertebrates
• Breeding: Livebearer, frequent broods with plant cover protecting fry

Tropical Fish Co. Notes

If you want a splash of pure sunshine that works in a wide range of community setups, the Banana Platy is tough to beat. The solid yellow body read beautifully against green plants and darker scapes, and the fish stay active without being pushy. They are forgiving for newer keepers yet rewarding for seasoned aquarists who enjoy selective breeding projects. Keep a mixed group with good greens in the diet for the richest color, and add floating plants to encourage confident swimming and natural social behavior.