Guppy

The Guppy is one of the most popular and widely kept freshwater aquarium fish in the world. Known for its bright colors, flowing fins, peaceful nature, and easy care, the guppy is ideal for beginners while still being fascinating for experienced aquarists. Due to extensive selective breeding, guppies come in an incredible variety of colors, patterns, and fin shapes.

Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata
Common Names: Guppy, Millionfish, Rainbow Fish
Family: Poeciliidae
Origin: Northern South America (Venezuela, Guyana, Brazil, Trinidad)
Difficulty Level: Very Easy

Physical Description

Size

• Males: 3–4 cm (1.2–1.6 inches)

• Females: 5–6 cm (2–2.5 inches)

Color & Patterns

Guppies display a vast range of colors and patterns, especially in males:

• Red, blue, green, yellow, orange, black, white, and metallic shades

• Patterns include mosaic, leopard, grass, cobra, tuxedo, solid, and more

Females are usually larger and less colorful.

Fin Types

Common tail shapes include:

• Delta (fan)

• Round

• Lyretail

• Swordtail (single or double)

• Spade

Behavior & Temperament

Guppies are peaceful, active, and social fish.

• Thrive in groups

• Males constantly display fins to impress females

• Rarely aggressive

• Suitable for community aquariums

They occupy the top and middle levels of the aquarium.

Tank Requirements

Tank Size

• Minimum: 10 gallons (40 liters)

• Larger tanks recommended for breeding or mixed communities

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

• pH: 6.8–7.8

• Hardness: Moderate (8–15 dGH)

Tank Setup

• Live plants (Java moss, guppy grass, hornwort)

• Gentle filtration

• Moderate to bright lighting

• Open swimming space

Weekly water changes (20–30%) are essential.

Diet & Feeding

Guppies are omnivores.

Ideal Diet

• High-quality guppy flakes or micro pellets

• Live or frozen foods:

  • Brine shrimp

  • Daphnia

  • Bloodworms (occasionally)

• Plant-based foods:

  • Spirulina flakes

  • Blanched vegetables

Feeding Schedule

• 2–3 small feedings per day

• Avoid overfeeding

Tank Mates

Compatible Species

• Other guppies

• Mollies and platies

• Tetras

• Rasboras

• Corydoras catfish

• Peaceful shrimp

Avoid

• Aggressive fish

• Fin nippers

• Large predatory species

Breeding & Reproduction

Guppies are livebearers.

• Gestation period: 25–30 days

• Fry per birth: 20–50+

• Fry are free-swimming immediately

Breeding Tips

• Male to female ratio: 1:2 or 1:3

• Dense plants protect fry

• Feed fry crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp

Guppies breed very easily and can quickly populate an aquarium.

Health & Common Diseases

Common Issues

• Ich (white spot disease)

• Fin rot

• Fungal infections

• Stress-related illnesses

Prevention

• Clean, stable water

• Regular water changes

• Quarantine new fish

• Avoid overcrowding

Lifespan

Average lifespan: 2–3 years
Proper care may slightly extend lifespan.