Coral Blue Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) Overview

• Captivating Appearance: Known for vibrant color, adding a burst of life and energy to any aquarium.
• Less Common: Not as frequently seen as other guppy varieties, making it a unique addition to tanks.
• Striking Coloration: Their bold and dynamic coloration makes them a standout in aquariums.

Male Coral Blue Guppy

• Coloration:
  • Ranges from light turquoise to deep royal blue.
  • Often accented with splashes of orange or red, particularly near the tail area.
• Fins:
  • Dorsal and caudal fins are especially vibrant, with a blue base and red/orange trim, creating a stunning contrast.
  • Their fins are elongated and flowing, contributing to their visual appeal.
• Size: Males are generally smaller than females.
• Role: The males are the showy, colorful individuals in the tank, often displaying their colors to attract females.

Female Coral Blue Guppy

• Coloration:
  • Generally more subdued than males, with bodies that are silvery-white or light yellow.
  • Often features speckles or patches of orange or red, though these are softer and less pronounced than the males’ colors.
• Fins:
  • Fins tend to be translucent or lightly tinted, providing a more subtle aesthetic compared to the males.
• Size: Females are typically larger and rounder than males.
• Role: While less colorful, females still contribute to the beauty of the tank by providing contrast to the males.

General Traits and Compatibility

• Temperament: Peaceful and social, making them great for community tanks.
• Social: They thrive in groups and are happiest when kept with other peaceful fish, especially guppies or small, non-aggressive species.
• Activity: Active swimmers, bringing constant movement and energy to the aquarium.
• Compatibility: Suitable for a variety of tank mates, as long as the other fish are peaceful and non-aggressive.

Tank Requirements

• Water Conditions: Adaptable to a variety of freshwater environments.
  • Temperature: Best in the range of 72-82°F (22-28°C).
  • pH: A range of 6.5-8.0 is ideal.
  • Hardness: Moderate water hardness is recommended.
• Tank Setup:
  • A well-planted tank with open swimming spaces is ideal.
  • Hiding spots are beneficial for both adults and fry (baby fish).
• Water Quality: Regular water changes and good filtration are important to keep the water clean and the colors vibrant.

Diet

• Omnivorous: Requires a balanced diet of plant and animal matter.
• Feeding:
  • High-quality flake food or micro pellets as a staple.
  • Occasional live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia will enhance their health and coloration.
  • Small, frequent feedings are recommended to mimic their natural feeding habits.

Breeding

• Livebearers: Like other guppies, Coral Blue Guppies give birth to live young.
• Breeding Frequency: Can breed often in a well-maintained tank.
• Fry Protection: Provide plenty of plants or hiding spots for fry to protect them from adult fish.
• Color Inheritance: The fry typically inherit the vibrant colors of their parents, making the breeding process especially rewarding.