VARIEGATED BLUE GUPPY

The Variegated Blue Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is a dazzling and hardy livebearer known for its vivid blue coloration and intricate, multi-toned patterns across the body and tail. The term “variegated” refers to the mix of colors and markings—often shimmering blues, silvers, and blacks—creating a marbled or mosaic-like effect that’s unique to each fish. This guppy variety is prized for its combination of beauty, activity, and ease of care, making it a favorite for both beginner and advanced aquarists.

Adult males usually grow to about 1.5 inches (3.5–4 cm), showing the most intense colors and elaborate tails, while females are larger, rounder, and more subdued in coloration. Males constantly display their fins and court females, making them lively and eye-catching tank inhabitants.

Ideal water parameters:
Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
pH: 7.0–8.0
Hardness: 8–20 dGH

Tank setup: A well-planted tank with open swimming space, gentle filtration, and stable water conditions is ideal. Floating plants like Hornwort or Water Sprite provide cover for fry, as Variegated Blue Guppies are prolific livebearers—females can give birth every 4–6 weeks. A 10-gallon tank is suitable for a small group, though larger tanks encourage more natural behavior.

Diet: These guppies are omnivores and thrive on variety. Feed high-quality flake or micro-pellet food as a staple, with supplemental frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Vegetable-based foods like spirulina flakes also enhance coloration and health.

Temperament and tankmates: Variegated Blue Guppies are peaceful and highly social. They do best in groups and coexist well with other gentle community fish such as platies, mollies, endlers, tetras, rasboras, and corydoras. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species like tiger barbs.

In summary, the Variegated Blue Guppy is a colorful, hardy, and active fish that brings constant motion and sparkle to any freshwater aquarium. Its combination of beauty, ease of care, and lively personality makes it an ideal choice for community tanks and small decorative aquariums alike.