Guppies and Platies, side by side
| Guppy | Platy | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 2 in5 cm | 2.4 in6 cm |
| Smallest tank | 10 gal38 L | 15 gal57 L |
| Keep | 3 or more | 3 or more |
| Temperature | 72–82 °F22–28 °C | 68–79 °F20–26 °C |
| pH | 7–8.2 | 7–8.2 |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Swims | Near the top | In the middle |
What size tank do they need together?
Each row shows how many of each the tank carries comfortably when these are the only two kinds in it.
| Tank | Guppy | Platy |
|---|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 10 gallon | Too small for both | |
| 20 gallon long | 4 | 4 |
| 29 gallon | 6 | 6 |
| 40 gallon breeder | 8 | 8 |
| 55 gallon | 12 | 11 |
| 75 gallon | 16 | 15 |
| 125 gallon | 26 | 26 |
Open this pair in the stocking calculator to add more fish or try your own tank.
How to make it work
- Add the calmer, smaller fish first, and the larger fish last.
- Use plants, wood or rocks to break up the view across the tank. Fish that cannot see each other all day fight less.
- Watch closely for the first week. Torn fins, hiding or a fish that stops eating mean it is not working.
- Keep a spare tank or a divider ready, so you can separate them the same day.
Questions and answers
Can guppies and platies live in the same tank?
Yes, usually. Guppies and platies like the same water: 72–79 °F (22–26 °C) and a pH of 7–8.2. Guppies spend their time near the top and platies in the middle, so they stay out of each other's way.
What size tank do guppies and platies need together?
At least a 20 gallon long tank, which carries about 4 guppies and 4 platies comfortably.
What temperature suits guppies and platies?
72–79 °F (22–26 °C) suits both.
More pairs
- Guppies and bettas
- Guppies and neon tetras
- Guppies and fancy goldfish
- Guppies and angelfish
- Guppies and bronze corydoras
- Platies and mollies
- Platies and tiger barbs
- Platies and dwarf gouramis
- Platies and cherry shrimp
- All pairs
Based on each species' adult size, water range and temperament (Seriously Fish, FishBase) and the rules of our stocking calculator. Individual fish differ: this is a guide, not a guarantee.