El Roberto wrote:
Yeah, sorry about the faecal discussion here, but I have 3 platys - 2 fairly
big and one baby one who's growing up quite nicely.... they all seem really
happy and happily gobble up the tropical fish flakes I give them (only one
per fish of course), but almost invariably they then spend a good ten
minutes each trying to rid their sphincter (ouch) of a big stringy grey
length of poo, like a tail, looking very uncomfortable in the process.

Is this healthy? They seem very happy 24/7, but I'd hate to think that my
decision to feed only flakes was causing them pain or discomfort when it
comes to poop time... should I be feeding them lettuce and peas more often,
or occasionally a live or frozen treat food (if so, what kind?).

Long poo is normal for platys - only worry if it becomes white and then
just be concerned rather than panic......Generally a good mixed diet is
the way to go - my Platys have even been seen eating algae like
spaghetti......feed as large a variety as you can - flake, frozen -
brine shrimps are supposed to be good for constipation I've heard but
mine also take blood worms readily.....the odd pea here and there should
be fine......

Gill