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.
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 (Fancy)
Males are significantly smaller but boast spectacular colors and large, flowing fins. They are extremely active and will relentlessly court females. Can be kept in a 'bachelor' (male-only) tank to prevent breeding.
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Also known as: Male Guppy, Cobra, Delta Tail, Mosaic
Female
Females are larger, thicker, and generally less colorful than males (though modern strains have colorful tails). They possess a distinct dark 'gravid spot' near the anal fin and can store sperm for months, dropping fry every 21-30 days.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Female Guppy, Breeder
Top Tank Mates
Julii Corydoras (False Julii)
Corydoras trilineatus
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Corydoras paleatus
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Melanoides tuberculata
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Palaemonetes paludosus
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Cambarellus patzcuarensis
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Uca sp.
🟢Ideal Tank MatesGuppy Care Guide Summary
The Guppy, scientifically known as Poecilia reticulata, belongs to the Livebearers family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 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 Guppy requires a brackish tolerant aquarium with a minimum volume of 38 litres and a tank length of at least 45 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 8–30 dGH. A low water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
The Guppy is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 2 varieties: Male (Fancy) 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.
Guppy Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Guppy, a low 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.
Guppy Compatibility Notes
Classified as peaceful, the Guppy 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 Guppy.
10 Gallon Standard
15 Gallon Standard
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
Show 22 more tank sizes
Frequently Asked Questions About Guppy
How big does Guppy get?
Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 5 cm. They have a fusiform body shape and a fast growth rate.
What tank size does Guppy need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 38 litres and a tank length of at least 45 cm are recommended for Guppy. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Guppy need?
Guppy thrives in brackish tolerant conditions with a temperature range of 22–28°C, a pH between 7 and 8.5, and a general hardness of 8–30 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
Is Guppy peaceful or aggressive?
Guppy is classified as peaceful with an aggression score of 1 out of 10. They are generally well-suited to peaceful community tanks.
Can Guppy live alone?
No, Guppy should be kept in groups of at least 3 to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour.
Does Guppy have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Guppy 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.
Similar Species
Endler's Livebearer
Poecilia wingei
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.
Goldfish (Comet / Common)
Carassius auratus
One of the most commonly kept and misunderstood fish in the hobby. Single-tailed goldfish (Comets, Commons, Shubunkins) are fast-growing, highly active coldwater fish that produce enormous amounts of waste. They are best suited for ponds or massive aquariums. They will uproot plants, sift substrate constantly, and eat anything that fits in their mouths.
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.
Rosy Barb
Pethia conchonius
A hardy, active, and colorful subtropical schooling fish. Known for the male's striking rosy-red breeding dress, while females are more golden/silver. They are voracious eaters, very active swimmers, and can be fin-nippers if kept in too small a group. Best kept in cooler water compared to tropical species. The Long Finned morph is also popular but requires gentler flow.
Paradise Fish
Macropodus opercularis
One of the first ornamental fish in the hobby (pre-dating the Goldfish in Europe). Paradise Fish are stunning, hardy, subtropical Anabantoids. However, they are notoriously aggressive, often exceeding the aggression of Bettas. They are cold-tolerant and thrive in unheated indoor aquariums, but they will readily attack smaller tank mates, eat fry, and fight conspecifics to the death.
Zebra Danio
Danio rerio
One of the most robust and active aquarium fish available. Native to South Asia, they are a model organism in science due to their genetics. They are extremely active top-level swimmers that must be kept in schools to prevent stress and fin-nipping. They prefer cooler, oxygen-rich water with a current.