Guppy

Photo for "assorted" guppies are a generic stock photo and the assorted guppy you get will likely be different to what is pictured. 

Guppy (Poecilia Reticulata)

Native Location: Northeast South America

Climate: Tropical

Maximum Size: 1.5 – 6.1 cm (0.6 – 2.4 inches)

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet: Omnivores

Breeding: Easy

Temperature Range: 24 – 28℃ (75 – 82℉)

Preferred pH Range: 7.0 – 7.2

Minimum Aquarium Size: 20 L (5 gallons)

Potential Tankmates: Mollies, Platies, Gouramis

Care Level: Beginner

One of the most well-known fish in the aquarium world, Guppies are popular among beginner and seasoned hobbyist. There are almost 300 different varieties of guppies with a wide colour range. Their peaceful and easy to care for nature make them the perfect addition to mid-sized tropical aquariums. Tankmates of similar temperaments suit guppies well.

Guppies are omnivorous creatures. Although they are not fussy eaters, a well-rounded diet of quality fish flakes, live/frozen foods and vegetables suit their needs. Being lively fish means a high level of protein in their diet is best. Avoid tankmates of larger and aggressive natures as a guppy will become a snack. Best kept with like-minded community fish. Livebearer fish make the ideal neighbour. Guppies like to be in groups with other guppies or companions. They are active swimmers, and it should be rare to see them idle. Males will often chase females.

If you see your guppies hiding, it could be a sign of sickness or stress for your wee little creature. They enjoy warmer waters. Try replicating other conditions like their wild environment, though bred captively. And, note, for every guppy you add, you must add 7.5 L (2 gallons) of water, so you will need a tank that accommodates this. Plan it out before you buy your guppies. They will also enjoy more planted tanks with rocks. A plant-like Amazon Sword would be a great addition. Guppies will spend most of their time in the mid to upper sections of the tank. Be sure to perform frequent water changes.

Guppies are sexually dimorphic, meaning you can tell the sexes apart by looking at them. Male varieties of guppies tend to be much smaller, 1.5 – 3.5cm (0.6 – 1.4 inches), than their female counterparts. But, males also have more striking colour stripes, spots and splashes. Females, 3 – 4 cm (1.2 – 2.4 inches) long, have duller colourings and can even be grey. Guppies are not shy fish, and that is no exception during breeding seasons. It is unlikely they’ll need your assistance during this time, as they are happy to breed like crazy. Guppies are also ovoviviparous, meaning the female will grow the eggs inside her, until they are ready to hatch. A breeding tank will need to be bare at the bottom. But use floating plants like java moss, the fry will need a place to hide.

All our fish are quarantined on arrival for two weeks. During this time, they are treated for any possible diseases and given a complete health check  to make sure they are health, happy and eating well before being placed in our display aquariums, ready for sale.

Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy: In the unfortunate event that your fish arrives dead, please follow these steps: Within 12 hours of the delivery, take clear, unopened bag pictures showing the deceased fish. Send these photographs and your order number to our customer service email atgetfish@thefishroom.co.nz or to our Facebook page and we will then offer a refund or store credit for the cost of the fish. 

Two-Week Guarantee Policy: We stand behind the health and quality of our fish, which is why we offer a two-week guarantee starting from the day of delivery. If your fish dies within this time frame, adhere to the following procedure: Take clear photos of the deceased fish. Using a reliable test kit, document via a dated photo, water parameters (pH, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite levels). Please email us the photographs, water parameters, and order number togetfish@thefishroom.co.nz or our Facebook page. After reviewing your claim, if approved, we will issue a store credit for the cost of the fish. Our two-week guaranteedoes not cover fish deaths due to unsuitable water conditions, incompatible tank mates or “disasters” i.e. a heater overheating. We recommend thoroughly researching each fish species' needs before introducing them to your aquarium to prevent such situations. 

 Freight Charges: Please note that shipping or freight charges are non-refundable under all circumstances. We hope this guide makes our refund and guarantee process more understandable. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please get in touch with us at getfish@thefishroom.co.nz. We are always happy to assist. Thank you for choosing The Fish Room. Happy fish keeping!