Freshwater fish identification

Question
Just bought these two fish. No. 1 alleged to be a barb and No. 2 a platy. Can you possibly identify them - I've tried and failed. Pictures at http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj132/dognomis/Query1.jpg

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj132/dognomis/Query2.jpg

Thanks awfully,

Simon


Answer
Hi Simon;

The first one looks like a "Congo Tetra", definitely not a barb. Look at the tiny fin behind the dorsal, before the tail. It is called an "adipose fin" and identifies tetras. The 'feathery' center of the tail fin is a congo tetra trait too. He's a bit thin so he would probably like a few friends of his own kind to dine with and plump up. They get to be 3 inches or so and need at least a 20 gallon tank. Very nice fish that look beautiful in schools of 10 or more, one of my favorite tetras.

The second is indeed a platy, more specifically a "Balloon Platy". They are livebearers and pretty peaceful. Be sure to keep at least two females per male so the males don't stress those females too much.

At Your Service;
Chris Robbins