SO-CALLED "SUPER FORMS"
This all-encompassing page is the temporary page to talk about 3 different fin forms developed from what was already there in the first place. In other words, these are distinct fin-combinations that deserve their own name to describe their uniqueness. Detailed here is a description, what they are created from and even how to recreate them! So, let’s jump in!
TRIDENT TAIL/"CROWNTAIL"
Although they go under the name of “Crowntail” it is misleading and could potentially lead to misinformation, due to the betta finnage of the same name which looks much more similar to the “Fringetail” platy. This fish has 3 tail extensions; 1 tin strand on top and bottom and a rectangular extension in the center. This fin form currently exist solely in the X. maculatus type body, although it could obviously be created out of hellerii through hybridization at any time.
Although the true status of this variety is unknown, it can be assumed it is extinct. Fortunately, it is of no great loss because it is a very simple cross between a plumetail phenotype male* and lyretail females! This is controlled by 2 dominant genes. (* Can also be done with genotype, however for the sake of simplicity only 1 is included)
FRINGETAIL
Fringetail platys only exist as X. maculatus and can be safely presumed extinct. They are described by the original breeder as having "six to ten long filaments spread along the edge of the caudal…"
Unknown creation process, however it does contain the lyretail gene.
VEILTAIL
This form is new and widespread (puns!). It was created in both platys and swordtails independently on 2 separate occasions. It is recognized by a long, flowing tail.
The maculatus veiltail was created by selective breeding LlPp and LlPP (see above) fish to have fused caudal fin extensions. |
The creation of veiltail helleri was very different. These pop up from LL fish (see article on Lyretails) due to mating a Lyretail female to a King Lyretail male. |