Guppy
Poecilia reticulata
Minimum Tank
10 Gallons
Adult Size
2 inches
Temperature
72-82°F (22-28°C)
pH Range
7.0-8.0
Lifespan
2 years
School Size
5+ fish
About Guppy
Guppies are small, vibrantly colored livebearers originally from the rivers and ponds of Trinidad, Barbados, and northeastern South America. Males display an extraordinary range of color patterns and tail shapes, from solid reds and blues to multicolored mosaic patterns, making them one of the most genetically diverse ornamental fish. Females are larger and less colorful but can store sperm for months, producing multiple broods from a single mating. Guppies were historically introduced to tropical waterways worldwide as mosquito control agents. They are exceptionally hardy and adaptable, tolerating a wide range of water conditions, which makes them an ideal choice for beginner aquarists.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 10-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- • pH: 7.0 - 8.0
- • Category: Livebearer
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Guppies breed prolifically, so keep an all-male group if you want to avoid population explosions, or provide dense floating plants like hornwort for fry to hide in. They prefer slightly hard, alkaline water and do well at a pH of 7.0-8.0. Feed a high-quality flake food supplemented with occasional frozen or live foods for the best color. Males may harass females relentlessly, so maintain a ratio of at least two females per male if keeping mixed groups. Watch for common ailments like ich and fin nipping, especially in overstocked tanks. Weekly 25% water changes keep them healthy and vibrant.
Quick Facts
38L
Min Tank (10gal)
5cm
Adult Size (2")
2yr
Lifespan
5+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Guppy
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Tank Mates for Guppy
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Molly
Poecilia sphenops
easy · 20+ gal
Swordtail
Xiphophorus hellerii
easy · 20+ gal
Bronze Corydoras
Corydoras aeneus
easy · 15+ gal
X-Ray Tetra
Pristella maxillaris
easy · 10+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other easy-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Guppy need?
A Guppy needs a minimum tank size of 10 gallons (38 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 5.
What water parameters does a Guppy need?
Guppy thrive in water between 72-82°F (22-28°C) with a pH of 7.0-8.0.
Are Guppy easy to care for?
Guppy are considered easy to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 2 years.
How big do Guppy get and what do they eat?
Guppy reach about 2 inches and are omnivores. Guppies breed prolifically, so keep an all-male group if you want to avoid population explosions, or provide dense floating plants like hornwort for fry to hide in. They prefer slightly hard, alkaline water and do well at a pH of 7.0-8.0. Feed a high-quality flake food supplemented with occasional frozen or live foods for the best color. Males may harass females relentlessly, so maintain a ratio of at least two females per male if keeping mixed groups. Watch for common ailments like ich and fin nipping, especially in overstocked tanks. Weekly 25% water changes keep them healthy and vibrant.