Koi Guppy (Poecilia reticulata "Koi") CB

The Koi Guppy is a fascinating bred form of the popular classic Poecilia reticulata. With its striking red and white coloration, this attractive ornamental fish recalls the typical pattern of a Koi carp and adds vibrant splashes of colour to the home aquarium. As captive bred in Germany (CB), it is well accustomed to aquarium life and is considered a robust and uncomplicated aquarium inhabitant.

Origin and Habitat

The wild form of Poecilia reticulata originally originates from the nutrient-rich waters of northern South America and the Caribbean islands. The colorful Koi variant is a selected line bred specifically for the aquarium hobby. Animals from German captive breeding are already accustomed to local water conditions and are characterized by high vitality.

Appearance and Size

The most striking feature of the Koi Guppy is its characteristic color distribution with intense red and bright white areas. As is usual with guppies, males usually show slightly more intense colors and remain somewhat smaller at around three to four centimeters. Females usually grow up to six centimeters in size and have a fuller body shape.

Aquarium Care

Keeping these peaceful livebearers succeeds without problems even in smaller aquariums with a minimum length of 60 cm. The Koi Guppy prefers water temperatures between 22 and 26 °C and a pH value in the range of 6.0 to 8.0. Good planting provides the fish with retreats, while sufficient open swimming space should be available for their active swimming behavior.

Tankmates

The Koi Guppy is an extremely peaceful aquarium inhabitant that is ideally suited for group keeping. It feels most comfortable in the company of several conspecifics. It can be ideally combined with other peaceful fish such as small tetras, rasboras or catfish, as well as with dwarf shrimp in a community tank.

Feeding

Regarding diet, this bred form is exceptionally uncomplicated and gratefully accepts almost any food. The Koi Guppy eats standard flake and granule food as well as food tablets and fine frozen food. A varied diet that also includes vegetarian components optimally supports the health, vitality and color intensity of the animals.

Behavior and Breeding

Guppies are very lively and curious fish that are constantly on the move in the tank. As livebearing toothcarps, the female gives birth to fully developed fry after a gestation period of about four weeks. Breeding in the home aquarium is very easy under good water conditions and usually succeeds without any special effort.