Red Line Endler Guppy

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 and Temperature:

• 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.