AquaSage
Species library

Guppy

Poecilia reticulata

Poeciliidae

FishDifficulty: ○○○○Data: well-established

About

The guppy is one of the most popular and hardy freshwater fish in the hobby, a small livebearing poeciliid native to northeastern South America but now found worldwide. Fancy strains display an astonishing range of tail shapes and colours, produced by decades of selective breeding. Males are small, slender and vividly coloured with large ornamental fins, while females are larger, fuller-bodied and comparatively plain. Guppies breed readily and give birth to free-swimming live young, making them an excellent beginner and community fish.

Care

Keep in groups of 6+ in hard, slightly alkaline water at 22-28°C. Best in a female-skewed ratio to reduce harassment. Feed small, varied portions and expect prolific breeding.

Diet

Omnivore; small frequent feedings of quality flake, micro-pellet, live/frozen foods and some plant matter.

Tankmate compatibility

Gets along with (6)

Possible with care (88)

Avoid (15)

Computed by the AquaSage engine for a spacious reference tank — always check the full verdict for your exact setup in the calculator.

Sources