Guppy
Poecilia reticulata
About
The guppy is one of the world's most popular aquarium fish, native to northeastern South America and now established in many warm regions worldwide. Domestic strains show endless colour and fin varieties. Males are small and colourful; females are larger and give birth to live young after internal fertilisation via the male's gonopodium. They are hardy, active, and suit community tanks with other peaceful species. They breed readily in captivity—plan for fry or control breeding if you do not want population growth.
Feeding & Diet
Flake or small pellets; frozen daphnia, brine shrimp, or bloodworm; include spirulina or blanched veg for plant matter.
Frequency: 1–2× daily
Avoid overfeeding; varied diet supports colour and health in fancy strains.
Habitat
Native Region: Northern South America (and widely introduced)
Streams, ditches, and shallow vegetated waters; tolerates a range of conditions.
Planted tank with open swimming space; prefer several females per male to spread male attention; floating plants give fry cover.
Behavior
Activity Level: High
Schooling Size: 3+ recommended
Active at top and mid-water; males may chase females—stock adequate females and hiding places.
Breeding
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Livebearer
Sexual Dimorphism: Males smaller with colourful bodies and gonopodium; females larger, rounder, especially when gravid.
Females drop free-swimming fry every few weeks when mature; dense plants or a breeder box improve fry survival; separate broods if raising numbers.
Tank Setup
Substrate: Either
Plant Safe: Yes
Fine with most aquascapes; avoid fin-nipping tankmates with long-finned males.
Your tanks
Add this species to a saved tank stocking list.
Care Requirements
Similar Livebearer Fish
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