Two male platy...

[justyn725]

I have two male platy now. They are both different types but it seems they chase each other all the time. Is it unwise to have them both in a tank together? Seems like the chasing never ends...maybe they're playing or something but not sure.

Thanks in advance for any advice!!

[Alfcea]

Are there any females in the tank? If there are, they could probably be trying to show superiority to acquire mating rights, but if there aren't they are probably just playing. Leave them there but monitor them closely, just in case one gets hurt...

[justyn725]

Well...it has been about 48 hours since I added the second platy, and the first one still is chasing that one away whenever he sees him. There is no females in the tank unless you count the swordtail which only spends time with the male swordtail anyway. Seems like the new Platy will barely come out from hiding anymore, sitting in the corner, hiding with the corys, and staying towards the bottom...

[Alfcea]

That's odd... Platies are some of the most peaceful fish out there....

So, they didn't come in at the same time, right? Do you think the first one has claimed the tank as his territory and won't accept to share it with another guy? Would you be able to bring the second one back to the store? Did he look weak when you bought it? That's really odd......

[Tolley]

People always say have as many males as long as you have 2 or 3 females per male. I've always disagreed in my experience if you have more than one male in any tank say 40g or under. They will compete. You could have 10 females or 1 female they will still fight.

Alfcea your idea is possible but i bought 2 males once into a tank with already two males and one of the new ones took control leaving the other three to hide. Nowadays i only keep females!

Three males in 20 gallons won't work. I'd return two males.