Male Blue Lyretail Guppy

Introduction

The 24K Gold Guppy is a stunning variant of the popular guppy species, known for its brilliant golden coloration. These fish are highly sought after by aquarium enthusiasts for their vibrant appearance, active nature, and ease of care. The shimmering golden hues and delicate fins make them a striking addition to both freshwater community tanks and breeding setups.

Scientific Name

Poecilia reticulata

Common Name

• 24K Gold Guppy

• Gold Guppy

Water Quality and Temperature

The 24K Gold Guppy thrives in a wide range of water conditions, making it an ideal species for both beginners and seasoned aquarists.

• Temperature: 74°F – 82°F (23°C – 28°C)

• pH Level: 6.5 – 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

• Hardness: 8 – 15 dGH (moderately hard water)

• Filtration: Regular filtration and aeration are important to maintain water quality, but they do not require overly high flow.

• Water Changes: Weekly water changes of about 20-25% to maintain water clarity and reduce waste buildup.

Feeding

The 24K Gold Guppy is omnivorous and enjoys a varied diet, which helps maintain its vibrant colors and overall health.

• • Staple Diet: High-quality flake food or pellet food designed for guppies.
  • Protein Sources: Live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia.
  • Vegetables: Occasional treats like blanched spinach or algae-based food to round out their diet.
  • Feeding Frequency: Feed 2-3 times a day in small portions to prevent overfeeding.

Tank Mates

24K Gold Guppies are peaceful and thrive in community tanks with other non-aggressive species.

• Compatible Tank Mates:

  • Other types of guppies, mollies, or platies

  • Tetras, such as Neon or Ember Tetras

  • Corydoras catfish

  • Peaceful bottom dwellers like shrimp or snails

• Avoid:

  • Larger, aggressive fish that may nip at their fins, such as bettas or cichlids

Substrates and Tank Decorations

This guppy variety enjoys an aesthetically pleasing tank with plenty of space to swim and explore.

• Substrate:

  • Fine gravel or sand works well, as it allows guppies to forage for food and prevents any irritation to their delicate fins.

• Tank Decorations:

  • Plants like Java Moss, Anubias, and floating plants provide hiding spots and make the environment more natural.

  • Decorations like rocks or driftwood can be added for visual appeal and extra hiding places.

Suitable Plants

While 24K Gold Guppies are not known for eating plants, they enjoy environments with ample plants for shelter and breeding.

• Best Plant Choices:

  • Anubias
  • Java Fern
  • Amazon Swords
  • Floating plants like Water Sprite or Frogbit

Sexing

Sexing 24K Gold Guppies is easy, as males and females have distinct differences.

• Males:

  • Smaller and more colorful, with the gold coloration most prominent in their tails and fins

  • Males have a modified anal fin, called a gonopodium, which they use for reproduction

• Females:

  • Larger and more subdued in color, often with a visible gravid spot near the tail when pregnant

Breeding

24K Gold Guppies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young instead of laying eggs.

• Breeding Conditions:

  • Ensure a ratio of 1 male to 2-3 females to prevent males from stressing the females.

  • Provide plenty of plants for fry to hide in, as adult guppies may eat the young.

  • Maintain a water temperature of 78°F (25°C) to encourage breeding.

• Fry Care:

  • Fry are born fully formed and can swim immediately. Offer powdered food or finely crushed flakes for the first few weeks of their life.

Maximum Size and Longevity

• Size: Males grow to about 1.5 inches (4 cm), while females reach up to 2 inches (5 cm).

• Lifespan: 2-3 years with proper care

General Information

The 24K Gold Guppy is a hardy fish that is easy to care for, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced aquarists. Their small size, vibrant colors, and active personalities make them a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts looking for a beautiful, low-maintenance addition to their tank. These guppies are also great for breeding projects, as they reproduce readily in home aquariums.

A Fun Fact

The gold coloration in the 24K Gold Guppy is a result of selective breeding, as guppy breeders have carefully cultivated fish with the most brilliant golden hues. These guppies often appear to shimmer under aquarium lights, making them a dazzling display in any tank!