Guppy
The guppy (*Poecilia reticulata*) is a small tropical freshwater fish in the family Poeciliidae.
The guppy (*Poecilia reticulata*) is a small tropical freshwater fish in the family Poeciliidae. It is native to northeastern South America and nearby Caribbean islands, and it has been introduced widely around the world. Guppies are popular aquarium fish and are also used as model organisms in ecology, evolution, and behavioural research.
Taxonomy and naming
The guppy belongs to the family Poeciliidae and its scientific name is *Poecilia reticulata*. Common names include guppy, millionfish, and rainbow fish.
Distribution and habitat
Guppies are native to northeastern South America and nearby Caribbean islands, but they have been introduced far beyond their original range. They are among the most widely distributed tropical fish in the world.
They live in freshwater and brackish waters, especially warm streams, ponds, and shallow pools.
Biology and reproduction
Guppies are livebearers, meaning females give birth to free-swimming young called fry. Males are usually smaller and more colourful than females, and the species is known for its broad colour variation.
Adult guppies typically reach about 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in length and have a lifespan of about 2–3 years.
Human use
Guppies are among the most popular freshwater aquarium fish because they are hardy, colourful, and easy to breed. They are common beginner aquarium fish.
Guppies are also used as model organisms in scientific studies of ecology, evolution, and behaviour. In some places, they have been introduced for mosquito control, as their diet includes small aquatic organisms and insect larvae.
Key facts
- Guppies are small livebearing fish rather than egg-layers.
- They are native to fresh and brackish waters in northeastern South America and the West Indies.
- They have been introduced to many regions worldwide and are among the most widely distributed tropical fish.
- Male guppies are typically smaller and more brightly coloured than females.
- Guppies are common aquarium fish because they are hardy and easy to breed.
Guppies are common in the Canadian aquarium trade and are familiar to many home aquarists in Canada. Canadian readers may also encounter guppies in discussions of invasive species, aquarium care, and freshwater fish biology.
Frequently asked questions
What is a guppy?
Where are guppies native to?
Do guppies lay eggs?
Why are guppies popular in aquariums?
Are guppies invasive?
How long do guppies live?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GuppySupports: Scientific name, family, livebearing reproduction, native range, global distribution, research use
- Britannica Kids — https://kids.britannica.com/students/article/guppy/274703Supports: Native range, family, scientific name, diet, aquarium popularity
- Britannica Kids — https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/guppy/601145Supports: Habitat, introduced range, invasive status, size, colouring, live birth
- PetMD — https://www.petmd.com/fish/guppy-fish-care-sheetSupports: Native range, aquarium popularity, lifespan
- The Spruce Pets — https://www.thesprucepets.com/guppy-fish-species-profile-5078901Supports: Scientific name, lifespan, origin, common names, aquarium popularity, named after Robert John Lechmere Guppy
- Aquarium Co-Op — https://www.aquariumcoop.com/blogs/aquarium/guppy-care-guideSupports: Popularity in aquarium hobby, livebearer description, mosquito control history
- WebMD — https://www.webmd.com/pets/what-to-know-about-guppiesSupports: Native range, invasive status outside native range