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Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata

Type: Freshwater

Size: Up to 1 ½" (3cm) for males, up to 2" (5cm) for females

Tank Size Needed (Minimum): 5 gallons (19L)

Water pH: 7.0 to 8.0

Water Hardness: Medium hard to very hard (10-30 dH)

Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

Origin: Americas, Florida to Brazil

Social: Does best in a pair or school of three or more. Will successfully live with any fish that won’t eat it or nip its fins, including Catfish, Clown Loaches, Gouramis, Mollies, Rainbows, and Tetras.

Life span: 2-5 years

Diet: Omnivorous. Use flake food supplemented with live plants and live or frozen food (bloodworms, brine shrimp)

Difficulty Rating: Beginner

Comments: The Guppy is a wonderful little fish. It is hardy and able to thrive in a variety of water conditions, including brackish water. This fish is very attractive, and mixes peacefully with other fish. It is also very easy to breed, even for beginners. The guppy is native to the Americas but has been transplanted around the world, primarily to keep mosquito populations under control. Because it breeds profusely, another common name for the guppy is “Millions Fish”.

If a male and female guppy are housed together, it is very likely they will spawn. Guppies are livebearers, not egg-layers like most fish, and will produce up to 30 fry at a time.

Though females are larger than males, they are not nearly as beautiful. Males have vibrant colors and longer, fuller fins. Breeders have developed a huge variety of colors, from brilliant blue to rich red to silvery white. There are many patterns, including Tuxedo, Snakeskin (also called Cobra or Dragon), Grass, Metal, and Mosaic. There are many fin styles as well, from rounded to square to sword shaped.

Guppy appreciation groups are active all around the world, and many guppy owners show their fish just as dog owners show their pets.