The “Electric Guppy” is a captivating and vibrant variant of the guppy species, known for its intense, neon-like coloration. The term “Electric” typically refers to the bright, glowing appearance of these guppies, often featuring electric blue, green, or other vivid colors that stand out in an aquarium.
A 10-gallon tank is the minimum size recommended, but a 20-gallon tank or larger is better for a group of Electric Guppies.
Substrate and Decor: Use a fine gravel or sand substrate. These guppies love a planted tank, which enhances their colors and provides hiding spots. Consider adding live plants like Java fern, Anubias, and Vallisneria. Rocks and driftwood can also add visual interest and provide more cover.
Lighting: Bright lighting will make their electric colors pop and support plant growth. LED lights with adjustable settings can help create the ideal ambiance.
Maintain a stable water temperature between 72-82°F (22-28°C).
A slightly alkaline pH of 7.0-8.0 is ideal.
Electric Guppies prefer moderately hard to hard water, similar to other guppy varieties.
Provide a balanced diet of high-quality flake or pellet food designed for tropical fish. Their vibrant colors benefit from the inclusion of color-enhancing foods.
Offer live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. These protein-rich foods help maintain their health and coloration.
You can also include some plant-based foods, such as spirulina flakes or blanched spinach.
Electric Guppies are peaceful and do well in community tanks with other small, non-aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include neon tetras, Corydoras catfish, mollies, and platies.
Avoid housing them with larger or more aggressive species that could nip at their fins or outcompete them for food.
Perform regular water changes (20-30% weekly) to maintain clean and stable water conditions.
Regularly test water parameters to ensure they remain within the ideal range.
Electric Guppies are active swimmers and social fish that thrive in groups. It’s best to keep them in a ratio of two females to every male to reduce stress on the females from constant courtship.
Their lively behavior and bright colors make them a focal point in any aquarium.
Electric Guppies can be prone to common fish ailments like fin rot or ich, especially if water conditions are not well-maintained. Ensure good water quality, provide a stress-free environment, and observe the fish regularly for signs of illness.
With their stunning appearance and active nature, Electric Guppies are sure to be a highlight in any aquarium. Their care is relatively straightforward, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists alike.