mixing Platies and Swordtails

[StuG]

So, in my current tank I have 2 male Platies, which will be moved to my 55 if I ever get around to finishing it.
Now, here's the thing. My son really loves swordtails, and is always tsalking about them. So I think it's only fair that when I stock the 55 I get him the fish he has been asking for. Of course it's the male that he's interested in, because that's the one that has the "sword". So, if I wanted to add females to the mix, would I now be looking at having to get at least 6, because they would also be getting harrassed by the platies, as well as the male sword?
I think I already know the answer, but figured I would find out for sure.
I guess I could stick with just a couple more males, but I'm guessing there might be aggression involved with that.

 

[lee1983]

you would need at least 6 with any social species to keep them happy although i have seen them happily mix with platies and they will cross breed with them too. i have heard male swords can be a bit of a bully though. the thing to remember with livebearers is to keep at least 2 or more female to every one 1 male or keep only one gender to keep things happy and prevent fighting