Moscow Black Guppy Overview

• Striking Appearance: Known for their deep, velvety black coloration that covers their entire body and fins.
• Popular among Aquarists: Prized for their dramatic look and lively personality, they make an excellent addition to any aquarium.
• Ideal for Showcases: Their intense black color makes them a standout species in community or specialty tanks.

Male Moscow Black Guppy

• Coloration:
  • Solid, intense black hue that extends from the head to the tail, often with a subtle metallic sheen that gives them an added depth and shimmer.
  • Fins are long and flowing, also black, contributing to the fish's dramatic visual effect.
• Size:
  • Males are smaller, typically ranging from 1.5 to 2 inches in length.
• Behavior:
  • Males are highly active and social, frequently swimming around the tank.
  • They display their fins to attract females, engaging in courtship behaviors to demonstrate their vibrancy and dominance.
  • Males are typically peaceful and get along well with other non-aggressive fish.
• Personality:
  • Lively and outgoing, often seen darting across the tank, adding energy and movement to the environment.

Female Moscow Black Guppy

• Coloration:
  • Females are generally larger and slightly less vibrant than the males.
  • Their black coloration is present but may be mixed with shades of gray or brown, especially on the body.
  • While not as intense as the males, females still possess a sleek, dark look that is elegant and attractive.
• Size:
  • Females tend to be larger than males, growing between 2 to 2.5 inches in length.
• Behavior:
  • Females are more calm and robust compared to the males, with a slower, more deliberate swimming style.
  • They are focused on breeding and often carry and give birth to live fry.
• Breeding:
  • Females give birth to live young and play a crucial role in the reproduction of the species.
  • They require a safe environment to carry and care for their fry, as adult guppies may eat them if not protected.

Tank Requirements and Care

• Water Conditions:
  • Moscow Black Guppies thrive in stable freshwater conditions.
  • Ideal water temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C).
  • pH range: 6.5-8.0.
  • Regular water changes and good filtration are necessary to maintain health and vibrant coloration.
• Tank Setup:
  • A well-planted tank with open swimming areas is best for these active swimmers.
  • Provide hiding spots for fry, as they are vulnerable to being eaten by adult fish.

Diet

• Omnivorous:
  • These guppies will eat a variety of foods, including high-quality flake food, micro pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
• Feeding Frequency:
  • Feed in small amounts several times a day to mimic their natural feeding habits.
• Color Enhancement:
  • A varied diet, including high-quality foods, will help maintain their dark, intense coloration.

Breeding

• Livebearers:
  • Moscow Black Guppies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young (fry).
• Fry Protection:
  • Provide plants or hiding spots to protect the fry from being eaten by adult guppies.
• Breeding Frequency:
  • They breed easily in captivity, producing fry regularly if water conditions are stable and well-maintained.
• Offspring Appearance:
  • The fry generally inherit the black coloration of the parents, though some variation in hue may occur.

Behavior and Compatibility

• Social Nature:
  • Moscow Black Guppies are social fish and do well in community tanks with other non-aggressive species.
• Tankmates:
  • They are compatible with other peaceful fish such as tetras, mollies, or other guppy varieties.
• Active and Lively:
  • They enjoy swimming in groups and bring energy and movement to the aquarium, making them ideal for tanks with a variety of species.

Summary

• Visual Appeal: The male Moscow Black Guppy’s striking black coloration and long, flowing fins make it a standout in any tank.
• Behavior: Both males and females are active, peaceful, and sociable, with the males displaying their fins to attract mates.
• Care: They are easy to care for and adaptable, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
• Breeding: Moscow Black Guppies are prolific breeders, and their fry inherit the stunning dark hues of their parents.

This variety of guppy is a beautiful, low-maintenance fish that adds elegance and dynamic movement to any aquarium setup.