Guppy Care Guide
Poecilia reticulata · Easy care · 10 gallon minimum
Hardy, colorful livebearers that breed readily. Great beginner fish; keep more females than males.
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How big does a guppy get?
A guppy (Poecilia reticulata) reaches about 2.0 inches as an adult. Plan tank size and tank mates around the adult size, not the small fish you buy at the store.
Tank size & setup
Give a guppy a minimum of 10 gallons, with water at 72–82°F and a pH of 7–8. Keep them in groups of at least 3 — they are shoaling fish and become stressed and washed-out alone. As a easy-care, omnivore species, a stable, cycled tank with the right diet keeps them healthiest.
Good tank mates
Pair a guppy with peaceful species that share its temperature and pH range. Compatible options include:
- Neon Tetra — 1.5", 10g min
- Molly — 4.0", 20g min
- Platy — 2.5", 10g min
- Zebra Danio — 2.0", 10g min
- Corydoras Catfish — 2.5", 20g min
About the guppy
The guppy, also known as the millionfish or rainbow fish, is a member of the family Poeciliidae and, akin to most New World members of the family, is classified as a livebearer. Male guppies, which are smaller than females, have ornamental caudal and dorsal fins. Wild guppies generally feed on a variety of food sources, including benthic algae and the larvae of aquatic insects.
Recommended gear for guppys
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