Size
The males only reach a length of 0.6-1.4 inches (1.2-2.4 cm), whilst the females reach a length of 1.2-2.4 inches (3-6 cm) (1.5 to 3.5 centimeters).
Physical Characteristics and Behavior
A nice guppy has 23 pairs of chromosomes, much as a human. A single set of sex chromosomes is also present. Males in the wild may have a variety of colors scattered throughout their bodies, while females are frequently a shade of grey.
Habitat
Guppies prefer hard water that is rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium and has a pH of 7.0 or higher.
In Captivity
Care
There is a reason why guppies are so frequently suggested to new aquarists. These fish are surprisingly tough considering their small size! They are a fantastic choice for anyone just learning the fundamentals of fishkeeping because they are tough and very adaptable. Anyone is capable of managing proper guppy care. But as always, for this species to actually prosper, there are a few desired rules and needs. Here is the important information that you must not miss.
- Tank Size
Guppies don’t require a large aquarium to be kept because of their diminutive size. Five gallons is all that is needed for a trio to live comfortably! The fish’s needs will be met by a five gallon tank. However, we advise using a 10-gallon tank or larger for optimal results. A bigger tank offers more comfortable living space. Guppies are quite energetic and enjoy swimming around their surroundings. That behavior can be accommodated in larger aquariums slightly better than in smaller ones.
- Diet
Guppy care is simple when it comes to eating! These omnivorous freshwater fish will eat anything they can get their hands on since they are natural omnivores. Guppies will look for plant debris and tiny bits of food in the water in the wild. However, mosquito larvae and other small insects are a wonderful feast for these fish. In captivity, it’s ideal to offer a healthy diet with some variety. High-quality flakes or pellets should be the main food source. Commercial food is well-balanced and designed to satisfy the nutritional requirements of tropical fish. Offer high-protein treats like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and mosquito larvae sometimes. These foods can be served frozen, freeze-dried, or alive.
- Water Conditions
It’s wonderful that you don’t need to be precise when taking care of guppies. Even while you should continue to routinely check the water quality (using a reliable test kit) to prevent any significant changes, as long as you stay within the following acceptable levels, your fish should be alright.
- 64 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit for the water (somewhere in the mid-70s is ideal)
- pH range: 7.5–8.0
- Water hardness range: 8–12 dGH
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