Can Phoenix Rasbora live with Variatus Platy?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow pH overlap — keep both around 7.
- Large size gap (Phoenix Rasbora 0.8" vs Variatus Platy 2.75") — the bigger fish may eat the smaller one as they grow.
- No overlapping water hardness: Phoenix Rasbora wants 1–8 dGH but Variatus Platy wants 10–25 dGH.
Sweet spot: both do well at 75–77°F and pH 7–7 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Phoenix Rasbora | Variatus Platy | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 75–82°F | 65–77°F |
| pH | 4.5–7 | 7–8.2 |
| Hardness (GH) | 1–8 dGH | 10–25 dGH |
| Adult size | 0.8" | 2.75" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 10 gal | 15 gal |
Together, plan on at least 15 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
- Add only full-grown adults — never juveniles, which will be eaten.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser → Aquarium Co-Op
Where to buy
- Phoenix Rasbora: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Variatus Platy: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
Live-animal shipping: add a heat pack below 50°F, expect weather holds above 90°F, and schedule delivery for a moderate week when someone can receive it promptly.
Build a full tank around this stocking →Everything compatible with Phoenix Rasbora · …with Variatus Platy