Guppy

Color varieties: Extensive tank breeding has given rise to a myriad of color variations across several fin varieties such as Flagtail, Fantail, Roundtail, Deltatail, and Spadetail.

Size: up to 3 inches

Gender: Males are smaller than females and are more brightly colored. Also, in males, the anal fin is modified into a stick-like gonopodium for breeding. Anal fins in females remain rounded.

Aquarium maintenance

Lifespan: up to 4 years

Temperature: 64 - 84°F

pH balance: 7 - 8.5

Aquarium specifications: This fish is extremely hardy and can survive in any environment. It requires a minimum tank size of 20 inches but will show better fin development if kept in a larger tank. Its natural habitat ranges from small, stagnant ponds to clear, mountain streams. It occupies the middle layers in a tank and thrives in an environment with plenty of live plants as well as a few floating varieties to keep the lighting subdued. They can tolerate a wide range of hardness but are uncomfortable in acidic settings.

Water hardness: 71.4 - 214.3 mg/L

Behavior

Temperament:  Although the Guppy is not a schooling fish, they are kept in groups of five or more in a tank with a higher ratio of females to males. This fish is largely peaceful and can be kept in a community aquarium. However, male fish may fight among themselves at times and also nip at the fins of the other fish in the tank. They are prolific breeders and each male should have at least two females to breed with.