A tiny, vibrant, and highly active livebearer closely related to the Guppy. Males display intense, neon colors and patterns, while females are larger and plainly colored. They are prolific breeders and require hard, alkaline water to thrive.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Male
Tiny and brilliantly colored. Can be kept in a male-only 'bachelor' group to prevent breeding. If kept with females, there must be at least 2-3 females per male to disperse their relentless courtship behavior.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Black Bar, Peacock, Tiger, French Star, Male Endler
Female
Larger, plumper, and silver/tan in color. They produce fry continuously (every 23-24 days). Due to their larger size and the fast-growing fry they produce, a larger minimum tank size is recommended for breeding colonies.
Differs in 3 traits from base species
Also known as: Female Endler, Silver
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🟢Ideal Tank MatesEndler's Livebearer Care Guide Summary
The Endler's Livebearer, scientifically known as Poecilia wingei, belongs to the Livebearers family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 2.5 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a fast growth rate. Classified as peaceful, this species primarily occupies the surface and mid-level zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Endler's Livebearer requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 19 litres and a tank length of at least 30 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 7–8.5 and a general hardness of 10–25 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
The Endler's Livebearer is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 2 varieties: Male and Female. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Endler's Livebearer Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Endler's Livebearer, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the surface and mid-level zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise adequate surface area with floating cover to make them feel secure near the waterline and open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement. Useful additions include dense planting to provide cover, break sightlines, and reduce stress and floating plants to diffuse overhead light and create shaded areas. Keepers should note that a tight-fitting lid is essential, as this species is a known jumper.
Endler's Livebearer Compatibility Notes
Classified as peaceful, the Endler's Livebearer is a social species that requires the company of its own kind to thrive. When choosing tankmates, their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the surface and mid-level zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Endler's Livebearer.
5 Gallon
10 Gallon Standard
15 Gallon Standard
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
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Frequently Asked Questions About Endler's Livebearer
How big does Endler's Livebearer get?
Endler's Livebearer (Poecilia wingei) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 2.5 cm. They have a fusiform body shape and a fast growth rate.
What tank size does Endler's Livebearer need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 19 litres and a tank length of at least 30 cm are recommended for Endler's Livebearer. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Endler's Livebearer need?
Endler's Livebearer thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 22–28°C, a pH between 7 and 8.5, and a general hardness of 10–25 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Endler's Livebearer peaceful or aggressive?
Endler's Livebearer is classified as peaceful with an aggression score of 1 out of 10. They are generally well-suited to peaceful community tanks.
Can Endler's Livebearer live alone?
No, Endler's Livebearer should be kept in groups of at least 3 to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour.
Does Endler's Livebearer have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Endler's Livebearer benefits from plants - densely covered and plants - floating in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Does Endler's Livebearer need a lid on the tank?
Yes. Endler's Livebearer is a known jumper, and a tight-fitting lid or cover is essential to prevent escape. Even a small gap can be enough for a determined fish to leap out.
Similar Species
Guppy
Poecilia reticulata
One of the most iconic and widely kept aquarium fish. Renowned for their incredible colors, hardiness, and prolific breeding. As livebearers, they give birth to fully formed, free-swimming fry. Males constantly pursue females for mating; therefore, a ratio of at least 2 females per male is strongly recommended to disperse stress.
Bumblebee Goby (Brackish)
Brachygobius xanthozonus
A miniature, bottom-dwelling goby famous for its striking black and yellow stripes. While they are often sold as freshwater fish and can survive in it temporarily, they are highly susceptible to fungal infections in fresh water and truly require a brackish setup (SG 1.002-1.005) to thrive long-term. They are notoriously picky eaters, often ignoring flakes in favor of live or frozen foods (like bloodworms or brine shrimp).
Swordtail
Xiphophorus hellerii
A popular, highly active livebearer known for the male's elongated lower tail fin (the 'sword'). They are hardy but require larger tanks than other common livebearers (like Guppies or Platies) due to their size and immense swimming energy. They require hard, alkaline water and do best with a ratio of one male to multiple females to disperse harassment.
Mosquitofish (Gambusia)
Gambusia affinis
An extremely hardy livebearer historically introduced worldwide for mosquito control. In the aquarium, they are notorious fin-nippers and highly aggressive towards other small fish. They are best kept in species-only setups or indoor/outdoor ponds. Males are significantly smaller than females.
Platy
Xiphophorus maculatus
A quintessential community fish known for its durability and massive variety of colors. Native to Central America, Platies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to free-swimming fry. They are peaceful, active grazers that require hard, alkaline water to thrive. They are excellent for beginners but breed prolifically.
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Heterandria formosa
Despite its common name, the Least Killifish is actually one of the smallest livebearing fish in the world, belonging to the Poeciliidae family, not the killifish family. Native to the southeastern United States, they are incredibly peaceful and perfect for nano tanks. Unlike most livebearers, they exhibit 'superfoetation', meaning females drop 1-2 fry every few days rather than a large single brood.