Fancy Guppies (Poecilia reticulata)
The Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is an incredibly diverse and fascinating fish species with almost endless possibilities for variation and colouration. With over 300 different varieties, there is something to suit every aquarist's taste.
Their vibrant and eye-catching appearance, combined with their peaceful temperament, make them an excellent addition to community tanks. They are also easy to care for and are a great choice for beginner hobbyists.
Guppies come in an array of colours and patterns, with metallic sheens, spots, and stripes. Additionally, they have a wide range of tail shapes and sizes, each with its own unique charm. From the iconic Fan-shaped tails to the elegant and flowing Lyretails, there is a Guppy tail shape for every preference.
Despite their small size, Guppies are full of personality and are known to be active and playful. They are also hardy fish, making them an excellent choice for those new to the hobby.
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| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Poecilia reticulata |
| Other Names | Million Fish |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cyprinodontiformes |
| Family | Poeciliidae |
| Genus | Poecilia |
| Origins | |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Groups 5+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | livebearer |
| Lifespan | 2 - 3.5 |
| Water Parameters | |
|---|---|
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| PH | 6.7 - 8.5 |
| GH | 10 - 20 |
| Temperature | |
|---|---|
| 66 - 84℉ 18.9 - 28.9℃ | |
Feeding
In the home aquarium, the Fancy Guppies will readily accept most good quality dried foods such as granules, flakes and sinking pellets. These modern food products have been developed to provide all adequate nutrition to maintain your fish's health and dietary requirements.
Providing additional foodstuffs such as live, frozen, and freeze-dried meals such as bloodworm, daphnia, and tubifex once or twice a week will provide additional benefits to your fish's health and well-being but is not a must for this fish.
It should be noted that bloodworms should only be given as an occasional treat and should not be used as the staple diet as they are difficult for fish to digest and can potentially cause blockages.
This fish is an omnivore in the wild, meaning it will consume some vegetable matter. Although most modern fish foods take this into account and include them in their products, you can still supplement your fish's diet with blanched vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini. Ensure you do not overfeed your fish and remove any leftovers the following day.
Sexual Dimorphism
Once mature, typically between 2 to 5 months, it is relatively easy to distinguish between male and female Guppies.
Males generally exhibit more vibrant and bold colors, with a longer and narrower anal fin that is specially modified for mating. Females, on the other hand, are typically larger in size and have a less intense coloration than males. Additionally, females have a noticeable gravid spot located just behind their anal fin, which becomes darker as they become pregnant.