The Platy is a common name of freshwater fish that lack a "sword" at the bottom of their tails. They are livebearers, similar to other fish of the same family, such as the guppy and molly. A live-bearing fish is one that retains the eggs inside the body and give birth to live, free-swimming young.

Platys are native to the east coast of Central America and Southern Mexico. 

In the wild, these freshwater fish live in rivers, ponds, and marshes. Oftentimes, their natural habitats have virtually no current. The water gets quite warm as a result and plants are free to flourish, creating a lush environment.

Platy Facts:

• The typical platy fish lifespan is between three and five years when kept in optimal conditions.

• Platys are pretty small, with an average size of roughly two and a half inches.

• Being livebearers, females can birth up to 80 young after being pregnant for 24 to 30 days.

These little cuties are available to order through the Living Science Material Center CO-OP page to help enhance teaching activities or as classroom pets.