The guppy (Poecilia reticulata) originates from the northern coastal area of South America, the regions of Venezuela, Guyana and the nearby islands. Its namesake came from the name of one of its initial discoverers, Rev. John Lechmere Guppy. The size of the fancy guppy is bigger than the wild cousins; the males are able to reach 4-5 cm in total length and the females would be about 5-6 cm.
The guppy is a fish that adds colour to all fish tanks. The vibrancy of its colours and vitality is a celebration of life.
The guppy is a livebearer. The female guppy gives birth to fully formed offspring instead of eggs. They grow rapidly into mature adults after 4-6 months.
Requirements of the guppy
Tank
A general guideline is 1 guppy per 4 litres of water.
Filters
Filters allow oxygenation of the water through circulation. It also allow maintenance and stability of the water quality. Fancy guppies prefer a slight current in their tanks. Sponge filters or small powerhead driven filters are recommended.
Water Changes
The Guppy does not like sudden changes in water parameters. When introducing them into your tank,
| Common Names: | Guppy, Millionfish |
| Scientific Name: | Poecilia Reticulata |
| Order: | Cyprinodontiformes |
| Sub-order: | Cyprinodontoidei |
| Lifespan: | 1-3 years |
| Size: | 1.5-3.5 cm (Male) 3-6 cm (Female) |
| Origin: | Europe |
| Natural Habitat: | Clear tropical waters (i.e. Caribbean Islands, etc.) |
| Water Parameters: | pH 6.8 – pH 7.8 |
| Water Temperature: | 23°C – 28°C |
| Water Hardness: | 8° dH – 12° dH |
| Reproduction: | Give live birth instead of laying eggs |
| Diet: | Omnivorous |
| Male | Female |
| Has colour spots or patterns on its body | Has few or none body markings |
| Has a stick-shaped anal fin | Has a triangular anal fin |
| Has a bigger caudal fin | Has a translucent or black area above the anal fin ( gravid spot) |
The guppy is small-sized delicate fish that is unable to defend itself against aggressive tank mates, hence it is necessary to select any tank mates with due care.
There are a few aspects to consider when selecting tank mates.
Guppies are omnivorous and they eat almost anything in their natural habitat. Guppies that are domesticated are accustomed to being fed with pellets and flakes, like the MN-G1 (micro granules). Alternatively, live foods, such as bloodworms and brine shrimps, or freeze dried foods like the Insta Fresh series.
Feeding 1-2 times daily would be recommended to keep Guppies healthy and well. Each feeding time should last about 1 minute. Do not overfeed your guppies, their intestine size is very small, which will lead to bloated stomach. You may also want to allocate a fasting day weekly for your Guppy to clear its digestive systems; this will help prevent bloating and constipation.
Join Guppy Club Singapore (GCS) to learn more about Guppies.
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