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
Water Parameters
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
Endler's Livebearer Care 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. To replicate their natural habitat, the tank should include plants - densely covered and plants - floating.
This species should be kept in groups of at least 3 to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour. Keepers should be aware that this species is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential. 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.
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).
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.
Neon Blue Goby
Stiphodon atropurpureus
A stunning, specialized freshwater goby native to fast-flowing hill streams in Asia. Males display brilliant neon blue metallic coloration, while females are striped. They are specialized biofilm grazers ('Aufwuchs' eaters) and require mature tanks with established algae/biofilm stones. They are obligate stream dwellers requiring high oxygen and strong flow.
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
Poecilia sphenops
Mollies are active, hardy livebearers native to the Americas. They are famous for their ability to adapt to fresh, brackish, and even full marine water. They are voracious eaters (including algae) and produce a high bioload for their size. Note: 'Molly' covers several species; the Short-finned (*P. sphenops*) and the much larger Sailfin (*P. latipinna* and *P. velifera*).