Fancy Guppy

This hot, summer month of July we celebrate the Fancy Guppy (Poecilia reticulata). One of the most prolific species of tropical aquarium fish, the Fancy Guppy has been intensely selectively bred since the early 1900’s. These members of the Poecilia family are native to the tropical waters of Antigua and Barbuda, but can be found on every continent, except the freezing waters of the Antartica. The guppy is a tropical fish and does best at a warm 78 degrees and a slightly basic pH. Guppies are extremely docile fish, they get along with almost all smaller community swimmingly! While they most commonly come in shades of red and green, these fish are available in a variety of colors and fin shapes. The electric patterns displayed by fancy guppies sometimes rival those of the most vibrant saltwater fish. The Fancy Guppy has inspired aquarium clubs, guppy shows, and even helps with disease control as they effectively eat mosquitos. The guppy has also been used by scientists studying topics like genetics and the effects of pollution, and they’re often utilized to feed small piscivores when needed. One thing that makes July’s Fish of The Month such a fascinating fish is that they are livebearers, which means that instead of laying eggs guppies produce live young. When kept in well oxygenated water, with bushy plants and proper feedings guppies reproduce rapidly.

While guppies seem like the perfect “hands-off” fish, there are some things the guppy keeper should be ready for. The most common issue with guppies seems to be that they won’t stop reproducing! This increase in fish waste can really take a toll on the wellbeing of their tank. That’s why it’s necessary to maintain your aquarium on time. Here at Centreville Aquarium, we recommend regular partial water changes accomplished with a gravel vacuum, accompanied by a monthly filter maintenance. A female guppy can have a brood every 28 days, even when kept without a male. This ability to store the male’s milt for more than 5 months is one more incredible reproductive trait that many livebearers possess. When the time comes to consider some form of guppy birth control, remember the fry come from the females. Keeping strictly male guppies is an affective, humane method to prevent an over population of guppies. The adaptability and versatility of the guppy makes it the perfect introduction for a new hobbyist into the world of fish. So next time you’re setting up a tropical community tank, make sure not to pass up an opportunity to take these fun freshwater fish home!