Guppy - Cobra (males)

The Cobra Guppy, also known as the Cobra Endler or simply Cobra Guppies, is a popular and striking fish variety derived from the common Guppy (Poecilia reticulata). Here's some information about the care of Cobra Guppies:

Species: Cobra Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)

Tank Requirements:

1. Tank Size: Provide a tank with a minimum capacity of 10 gallons for a small group of Cobra Guppies. They are small fish, but they appreciate space to swim.

2. Water Temperature: Maintain a temperature between 72-82°F (22-28°C).

3. Water Parameters: Aim for a pH level of 6.8-7.8 and a hardness of 5-20 dGH.

4. Filtration: Install a reliable filtration system to maintain water quality and provide gentle water movement.

5. Substrate and Decor: Use a soft substrate like sand or small gravel. Provide hiding spots using plants (live or artificial), driftwood, and floating plants. Cobra Guppies appreciate a well-decorated tank.

Feeding:

1. Diet: Cobra Guppies are omnivorous. Offer them a varied diet that includes high-quality flake or pellet food as the staple. Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and vegetable matter like blanched spinach or spirulina-based foods.

2. Feeding Frequency: Feed Cobra Guppies small amounts 2-3 times a day, giving them what they can consume within a few minutes. Adjust the quantity based on their appetite and avoid overfeeding.

Tankmates:

1. Compatibility: Cobra Guppies are generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful community fish species.

2. Suitable Tankmates: Good tankmates include other small peaceful fish like tetras, rasboras, guppies, and other similarly-sized peaceful species. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish.

Maintenance:

1. Water Changes: Perform regular partial water changes of 25-30% every 1-2 weeks to maintain water quality and remove accumulated toxins.

2. Water Testing: Regularly test water parameters, including ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and temperature, to ensure they remain within the appropriate range.

3. Cleaning: Routinely clean the tank by removing any excess waste, debris, and decaying plant matter. Regularly clean the filter to prevent clogging and ensure efficient water circulation.

Behavior and Health:

1. Behavior: Cobra Guppies are active and social fish that swim in all levels of the aquarium. Males are known for their striking and elaborate tail patterns. They are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs.

2. Signs of Good Health: Look for active swimming, vibrant colors, intact fins, and a healthy appetite. Any signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of color, clamped fins, or abnormal growths, should be promptly addressed.

Remember to monitor your Cobra Guppies regularly, maintain good water quality, and provide a well-balanced diet to ensure their overall health and well-being.