Guppy
Poecilia reticulata
The endlessly colourful livebearer that breeds readily and is perfect for first-time fishkeepers.
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Min. Tank Size | 40 L |
| Temperature | 22.0–28.0 °C |
| pH Range | 7.0–8.2 |
| Max Size | 5.0 cm |
| Lifespan | 2-3 years |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
Care Guide
Guppies are vibrant, hardy and endlessly varied, making them ideal beginner fish. They prefer harder, slightly alkaline water common to much of Australia's tap supply.
Keep a ratio of 2-3 females per male to reduce harassment. Feed a varied diet of flake, micro-pellets and occasional frozen foods. Be prepared for fry — guppies breed quickly, so plan tankmates or grow-out space accordingly.
Behaviour
Active, colourful livebearers; males constantly display to females.
Compatibility
Superb community fish for mollies, platies, corydoras and peaceful tetras in harder water.
Breeding
Prolific livebearer. Females give birth to live fry every 4-5 weeks; provide cover for fry to survive.
Disease Risks
Fin rot, ich, and 'guppy AIDS' (Tetrahymena) in poor conditions. See our fish disease database for treatment.