Guppy Fish

Colorful male guppy fish following larger female

Fish Care Page

About Guppies

Guppy fish are a delightful addition to any freshwater aquarium, offering beauty, personality, and entertainment

Guppies are colorful, active fish that are prolific breeders, making them a popular choice for community aquariums. They come in a wide variety of colors and patterns and are well-suited for beginners due to their hardiness and adaptability. We carry dragon females and dragon males; visit our Tropical Fish page to find out what we have in stock.

Guppy fish, scientifically known as Poecilia reticulata, are a popular freshwater aquarium species cherished for their vibrant colors, lively behavior, and ease of care. Originating from South America, particularly in regions like Guyana, Trinidad, and Venezuela, guppies have become a staple in the aquarium hobby worldwide. Their small size, adaptability, and prolific breeding make them ideal for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

Characteristics

Guppies are renowned for their dazzling colors and intricate patterns, which are more pronounced in males. Males often flaunt vibrant hues of red, blue, green, and yellow, with elongated fins adorned with striking designs. Females, while less colorful, exhibit a subtle beauty with muted tones and a rounded body shape. Guppies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to fully formed young rather than laying eggs.

Care & Feeding

Guppies are relatively easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for beginners. They thrive in well-maintained aquariums with stable water parameters and ample hiding places. A tank size of at least 10 gallons is recommended for a small group of guppies. They prefer slightly alkaline water with a temperature range of 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C) and a pH level between 7.0 and 8.0.

Feeding guppies is straightforward as they are omnivores with hearty appetites. A varied diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food supplemented with live or frozen treats such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia will keep them healthy and vibrant. It’s essential not to overfeed guppies to prevent digestive issues and water quality problems.

Compatibility

Guppies are peaceful community fish that get along well with a wide range of tankmates. However, they should not be housed with aggressive or fin-nipping species. Good tankmates for guppies include other peaceful community fish such as Tetras, Mollies, Platies, and peaceful Dwarf Cichlids. Avoid pairing them with larger, predatory fish that may view guppies as potential snacks.

In terms of social dynamics, guppies are social creatures that thrive in groups. Keeping them in a shoal of at least five individuals will promote natural behavior and reduce stress. Additionally, providing plenty of plants and hiding spots in the aquarium will help minimize aggression and provide refuge for shy or pregnant guppies.

See what Mollies we carry