Blue Platy Platy
Xiphophorus maculatus
About this strain
One of the more challenging color varieties to evaluate in the store — the blue is a structural, iridescent blue-gray rather than a pigment-based cobalt, so it shifts with light angle. Under good aquarium lighting, quality specimens show a cool steel-blue sheen across the flanks that can look striking against green plants. Body form is standard platy, compact and deep-bodied. Color tends to be more pronounced in males. Be aware that many fish sold as 'Blue Platy' are mediocre in color; buy in good lighting conditions and look for even coverage rather than just blue patches near the dorsal.
Origin
Blue coloration in Xiphophorus maculatus has been documented in scientific breeding studies since at least the mid-20th century. Stabilization as a commercial trade variety occurred gradually through Asian fish farm selective breeding programs.