Latin Name: Poecilia reticulata
Other Names: Red and White Guppy, Holiday Guppy
These colourful little fish are a brilliant addition to any aquarium, known for their festive red and white hues and lively personalities.
How hard are they to keep?
They?re quite easy to keep, making them perfect for both beginners and experienced aquarists. As long as you provide a well-maintained tank with good water quality, they?ll thrive.
What is its maximum size?
Santa Clause Guppies stay small, typically growing to about 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm) in length. Their compact size makes them ideal for smaller tanks or as part of a larger community setup.
Where are they from?
Guppies originate from the freshwaters of South America, particularly from countries like Venezuela, Brazil, and Trinidad. The Santa Clause variety has been selectively bred for its unique and festive coloration.
How many can I keep?
You can keep a small group of them, as they?re social creatures that thrive in company. A minimum of five is recommended, but more is always better. For a small group, a 10-gallon tank is the minimum size recommended.
How compatible are they with other fish?
Santa Clause Guppies are peaceful and get along well with other non-aggressive fish. Ideal tankmates include tetras, mollies, platies, and other small, friendly species. Avoid housing them with larger, aggressive fish that might see them as a snack.
What are the ideal water conditions?
These guppies prefer a temperature range of 64.4-82.4 F (18c-28c) and a pH level between 6.8 and 7.8. They thrive in hard water with a bit of salt added, but they?re quite adaptable. Regular water changes and good filtration are essential to keep them healthy and happy. The Santa Clause Guppies that are for sale have been climatized to our local water conditions.
How do you tell the difference between male and female?
Males are usually more brightly coloured, with the distinctive red and white pattern that gives them their name. They also have larger, more elaborate fins. Females are generally larger, with rounder bodies and less vibrant colours. Additionally, females have a gravid spot near the rear vent when they are pregnant.
Fun Fact:
Santa Clause Guppies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to free-swimming fry rather than laying eggs. This can lead to a rapid increase in population if you?re not careful, so be prepared for lots of tiny guppies!
£2.65
