Guppy

Poecilia reticulata

Fancy males can have broad colourful tails; females and wild forms look different.

Adult length: Up to 6 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 24.4–25.6 °C
Lifespan: 2–3 years
pH: 7–8.5
Hardness: 8–30 dGH

Native range: South America: Venezuela, Barbados, Trinidad, northern Brazil and the Guyanas.

Natural habitat: Occupies diverse habitats including springs, vegetated ditches, canals, ponds and mountain streams, from turbid lowland waters to clear creeks.

Keep domestic strains in stable hard, alkaline water and plan for offspring.

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Appearance and identification

The broad, colourful tail of a fancy male does not represent wild forms or females. Males have a rod-like gonopodium; females are usually larger and fuller, and some domestic females also have colourful tails. Small-tailed wild forms and trade hybrids still need provenance checks.

Same-species behaviour

Males pursue persistently; keep several females per male to spread pressure. Adults may eat fry. Single-sex groups avoid new matings, but watch space and pursuit.

Space requirements

A 45 × 30 cm base. Plan around adults, swimming room and offspring.

Diet and feeding

Captive forms generally accept varied foods; offer appropriately sized complete feeds.

Compatibility limits

Avoid fin-nipping companions and fish able to swallow guppies. Check size, behaviour and hard-water needs.

Aquarium environment

Planting and floating vegetation give refuge for females and fry without guaranteeing freedom from pursuit or predation. Keep swimming space, avoid excessive current and choose plants suited to hard water.

Sources

www.aquariumcoop.com ↗ 2026-10-22

www.fishbase.se ↗ 2026-10-25

www.seriouslyfish.com ↗ 2026-10-22

api.gbif.org ↗ 2026-10-22