Platy's

[omordn]

I currently have two Red Burst Platies and I was wondering if I can tell their sex. The reason why I am asking is because I've noticed that one of my platy's belly has gotten big. I'm not sure if this is a good thing, bad thing, or common in the species? Please Help.

Thanks.

 

[celaeno]

female platies have an anal fin. male platies have a gonopodium instead of an anal fin.

 

[omordn]

female platies have an anal fin. male platies have a gonopodium instead of an anal fin.

could this mean that my platy might be carrying (considering its belly has gotten big)?

 

[kribensis12]

Probably, got any pic's?

 

[LauraFrog]

I just ran up a quick diagram of what to look for. If you have a look at the two fins directly in front of the gonopodium or anal fin, they hang down loosely when the fish is relaxed. When they are tucked up against the body, that means the fish has contracted its fins, and if it is a female, its anal fin will also be pressed against its underside and it can look like a male. Only try to sex the fish when the ventral fins (in front of the gonopodium/anal fin) are flowing loosely.

Swollen abdomen PROBABLY = fry coming. Good luck!