Female Guppy Jumbo | 3-4cms | Single

Female Guppy Fish (Poecilia reticulata), also known as "millionfish," are popular freshwater aquarium fish renowned for their vibrant colors, ease of care, and active nature. Unlike the more flamboyant males, females are generally larger, with more subdued colors, but they still bring beauty and balance to community tanks. Additionally, they are livebearers, making them fascinating for aquarists interested in breeding.
Key Characteristics
Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata
Size: 1.5–2.5 inches (3.8–6.4 cm)
Lifespan: 2–3 years
Coloration:
Typically less vibrant than males, with colors like silver, pale orange, or faint patterns.
Shape:
Larger body with a more rounded abdomen compared to males.
Temperament:
Peaceful and social.
Tank Level:
Mid-to-upper water level.
Water Parameters
Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
pH: 6.8–8.0
Hardness: 10–20 dGH
Water Quality:
Tolerant of a wide range of conditions but prefers stable parameters.
Moderate flow with proper filtration is ideal.
Tank Setup
Tank Size:
Minimum 10 gallons for a small group (3–5 females).
Plants and Decorations:
Include live plants like Java Moss, Anacharis, or Water Wisteria for shelter.
Floating plants provide cover for fry if breeding.
Substrate:
Sand or fine gravel enhances their natural behavior.
Lighting:
Moderate lighting to simulate natural conditions.
Diet
Type: Omnivorous.
Preferred Foods:
High-quality flake food designed for tropical fish.
Supplement with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms.
Blanched vegetables (e.g., zucchini or spinach).
Feeding Tips:
Feed 2–3 times daily in small portions.
Behavior and Tank Mates
Behavior:
Peaceful and active swimmers, often seen in groups.
May become stressed in aggressive environments.
Suitable Tank Mates:
Other livebearers like Mollies, Platies, and Swordtails.
Tetras, Corydoras, Rasboras, and small snails.
Avoid:
Large or aggressive species like Cichlids, which may harass or eat them.
Breeding
Difficulty: Easy.
Process:
Female Guppies are livebearers, giving birth to free-swimming fry every 28–30 days.
A gravid spot near the anal fin darkens when pregnant.
Provide hiding spots or a separate breeding tank to protect fry from being eaten by adults.
Fry Care:
Feed fry finely crushed flake food, baby brine shrimp, or specialized fry food.
Care Tips
Perform weekly water changes (25–30%) to maintain water quality.
Keep females in groups of at least three to reduce stress.
Avoid overcrowding, which can lead to poor water quality and health issues.
Use a lid to prevent jumping.
Why Choose Female Guppies?
Hardy and beginner-friendly.
Active and peaceful, making them excellent for community tanks.
Fascinating to watch, especially during breeding.
Affordable and widely available.
Conclusion
Female Guppy Fish are a delightful addition to any aquarium, bringing energy, simplicity, and opportunities for breeding. Their peaceful nature and adaptability make them ideal for aquarists of all experience levels. Whether you’re setting up a vibrant community tank or experimenting with livebearer breeding, female guppies offer endless enjoyment and beauty.