Xiphophorus variatus (Meek, 1904) Variable platyfish |
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photo by
Artigas Azas, J.M. |
Family: | Poeciliidae (Poeciliids), subfamily: Poeciliinae | |||
Max. size: | 7 cm TL (male/unsexed) | |||
Environment: | benthopelagic; freshwater; pH range: 7 - 8; dH range: 9 - 19, non-migratory | |||
Distribution: | North America: endemic to Mexico from southern Tamaulipas to northern Veracruz. At least one country reports adverse ecological impact after introduction. | |||
Diagnosis: | ||||
Biology: | Occurs in warm springs, weedy canals and ditches (Ref. 5723). Feeds on worms, crustaceans, insects and plant matter (Ref. 7020). Used for genetic research (Ref. 4537). Aquarium keeping: minimum aquarium size 60 cm (Ref. 51539). | |||
IUCN Red List Status: | Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 28 March 2018 Ref. (130435) | |||
Threat to humans: | potential pest |