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fish · Poeciliidae

Guppy

Poecilia reticulata

Wild range: Tropical regions (South America)

Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)
Photo via Care Guide for Guppies – The Most Popular and Colorful Livebearer – Aquarium Co-Op · original

At a glance: Guppy care

Compiled reference information. Review the care notes and original sources below.

What temperature is listed for Guppy?

The compiled profile lists 22.0–28.0 °C for Guppy (Poecilia reticulata). Check the original sources below for context and differing recommendations.

What tank size is listed for Guppy?

The profile lists a minimum tank volume of 5.0 US gallons (18.9 liters). Volume alone does not establish suitability; consider dimensions, group size and other inhabitants alongside the full care notes.

What pH is listed for Guppy?

The compiled profile lists a pH of 6.5–8.0. Review the cited care sources alongside the other water parameters in this profile.

Natural habitat

Guppies are indigenous to freshwater rivers and streams in tropical regions of South America. They thrive in areas with vegetation that provides cover and breeding grounds. Guppies exhibit a strong adaptability to varying water conditions, which contributes to their success in aquariums.

Where they are found

Guppies are found naturally in freshwater environments across South America including the Amazon and other associated rivers, flourishing in habitats with stable water parameters.

Aquarium care

When keeping guppies, it’s important to provide a well-filtered aquarium with stable water conditions. Regular water changes and monitoring of water parameters are crucial to maintain their health. Guppies prefer a temperature range of 22-28°C and a daily feeding of varied food types, including flakes, pellets, and occasional frozen treats. Ensure that the tank has plenty of plants for hiding spots to promote natural behavior.

Feeding

Guppies are opportunistic feeders and thrive on a diverse diet that includes high-quality flakes, pellets, as well as frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and daphnia. Vegetables like blanched spinach can also be offered occasionally to aid digestion.

Compatibility

Guppies are gentle and social, making them compatible with many other peaceful community fish. Avoid housing them with larger, aggressive species, like goldfish, which may prey on them. Good tankmates include Corydoras, Danios, and Tetras.

Breeding

As livebearers, guppies can reproduce quickly, with females giving birth to live young. Provide plenty of cover for fry to grow safely. Expect peaks in breeding activity at optimal water conditions.

Sources

Compiled from multiple independent care sheets — not copied from a single site.