Guppy Care Guide
Tank Requirements
- Minimum size: 10 gallons for a trio; 20 gallons or larger recommended for breeding colonies.
- Water temperature: 72-82 degrees F (22-28 degrees C).
- pH range: 6.8 - 7.8, moderately hard water. Aquarium Salt can be considered.
- Filtration: Gentle sponge or hang on back filter. Sponge filter is best for guppy breeding.
- Aquascape: Planted tanks with Java moss, hornwort, and floating plants provide cover for fry.
Maintenance
Weekly water changes (20 - 30 percent). Partial water changes are better. This simple habit will avoid ammonia/nitrite spikes. A stable heater is critical � guppies are tropical and don�t tolerate rapid changes in temperature. If you plan to invest in your livestock, spend the extra on a quality heater.
Tankmates for Guppies
Guppies are peaceful community fish but should be housed with compatible species:
Good Tankmates:
- Tetras (neons, cardinals, ember)
- Corydoras catfish
- Mollies, platies, swordtails
- Dwarf gouramis (peaceful varieties)
Avoid:
- Fin-nippers like tiger barbs or Danios
- Large/aggressive cichlids (oscars, Jack Dempsey)
- Betta splendens (possible aggression toward guppies)
Breeding Guide
Guppies are livebearers, meaning females give birth to free-swimming fry. This makes them prolific and easy to breed.
Breeding Steps
- Select healthy breeders - Use strong, colorful males and robust females.
- Breeding ratio - 1 male per 2 - 3 females reduces stress.
- Gestation period - 21 - 30 days.
- Signs of pregnancy - Enlarged belly, dark gravid spot near anal fin.
- Birthing - Females give birth to 20 - 40 fry monthly.
Fry Care
Provide dense plants or breeding traps to protect fry. Using live plants is suggested for the best results. Consider lighting and substrate before choosing live plants.
Artificial plants can work just as well if done correctly.
Feed infusoria or crushed flakes for the first few days, then baby brine shrimp.
If you choose to use crushed flakes, prepare to do water changes more frequently.
Crushed flake food that is uneaten will pollute the water very quickly. Separate fry from adults for maximum survival. There are many breeder traps on the market that will keep the mother in a container, while
the fry escape into the tank unharmed.
Guppies are one of the most diverse aquarium fish in existence, with countless varieties developed by breeders worldwide. With proper care, careful selection of tankmates, and an understanding of their breeding habits, guppies can thrive and provide endless enjoyment for both beginner aquarists and expert breeders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular guppy varieties?
Popular guppy varieties include delta tail, swordtail, lyretail, leopard, snakeskin, tuxedo, half-black, and Moscow guppies. These strains are recognized by organizations such as the International Fancy Guppy Association.
What fish can live with guppies?
Good guppy tankmates include small peaceful species like neon tetras, corydoras catfish, mollies, and platies. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species such as tiger barbs or large cichlids.
How do you breed guppies?
To breed guppies, keep one male with two or three females. Females give birth to 20�40 live fry every 21�30 days. Provide dense plants or breeding boxes to protect fry, and feed them baby brine shrimp
