Chilli Red Endler

Introduction: Welcome to the fascinating world of Endler Guppies! These vibrant and captivating fish are a joy to keep in any aquarium. Their eye-catching colors, energetic behavior, and ease of care make them a popular choice among both beginner and experienced fishkeepers. Let’s dive into the essential details of the Endler Guppy!

Scientific Name: Endler Guppies belong to the species Poecilia wingei. They are a close relative of the classic Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) and share some similarities in appearance and behavior.

Water Quality:

• Temperature: Endler Guppies thrive in water temperatures between 72°F and 82°F (22°C – 28°C). Maintaining a stable temperature is crucial for their well-being.
• pH Level: Ideally, the pH should be kept in the range of 7.0 to 8.5 to provide a suitable environment for these lively fish.
• GH Level: A general hardness (GH) of 8 to 12 dGH is recommended for Endler Guppies.
• KH Level: Aim to keep the carbonate hardness (KH) between 6 and 18 dKH to maintain stable water conditions.

Feeding: Endler Guppies are not picky eaters and accept a variety of foods. A balanced diet can consist of high-quality flake or pellet food supplemented with occasional treats like brine shrimp, daphnia, or freeze-dried bloodworms. Providing them with a varied diet ensures their overall health and vibrant colors.

Tank Mates: Compatible tank mates for Endler Guppies include:

• Peaceful community fish such as Tetras, Corydoras, and Swordtails.
• Small, non-aggressive species like Cherry Shrimp and Snails.

Substrates and Tank Decorations: Endler Guppies appreciate a well-planted aquarium with ample hiding spots. A mix of live plants, floating plants, and hardy substrates like gravel or sand creates a natural and comfortable environment for them. Additionally, driftwood and rocks can serve as great additions for both aesthetic appeal and as hiding places.

Suitable Plants: Some suitable plants for an Endler Guppy aquarium are:

• Java Moss
• Anubias
• Amazon Sword
• Hornwort
• Java Fern

Sexing: Distinguishing between male and female Endler Guppies is relatively easy. Males typically display vibrant colors and possess a more streamlined body with elongated dorsal and anal fins. Females, on the other hand, are usually larger, less colorful, and have a more rounded body shape.

Breeding: Endler Guppies are prolific breeders. To breed them successfully, provide ample hiding places for fry, as adult guppies may prey on their own offspring. A separate breeding tank with dense plant coverage or breeding traps can help ensure higher fry survival rates.

Maximum Size and Longevity: Endler Guppies are petite fish, with males reaching around 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length, while females may grow slightly larger, up to 1.5 inches (3.8 cm). With proper care, they can live for about 2 to 3 years, though some individuals may surpass this average lifespan.

General Information: Endler Guppies are a subspecies of the Poecilia wingei species, native to certain areas in Venezuela. Their small size, striking colors, and peaceful demeanor make them an excellent addition to community aquariums.

A Fun Fact: Endler Guppies were first discovered in the late 1930s by a renowned ichthyologist, Dr. John Endler, hence the name “Endler Guppy.” His findings and contributions to the study of these fish have led to a better understanding of their behavior and genetics.

Now that you know all about Endler Guppies, why not add these charismatic little fish to your aquarium and enjoy their lively presence and delightful colors!