The "flame guppy" is a vibrant and popular variety of the guppy fish (Poecilia reticulata) known for its bright red, orange, and yellow coloration that resembles flickering flames. These small, peaceful fish are easy to care for, making them suitable for beginner and community aquariums. Males are smaller with more vivid colors and elaborate fins, while females are larger and more muted.
Physical description
Coloration: The body is a bright blend of red, orange, and yellow, which can be solid or have gradients.
Fins: The dorsal and tail fins are often fiery in color and can have red edges and yellow cores.
Size: Males typically grow to about 1.5 inches (3.5–4 cm), while females are larger.
Body shape: Males have flowing fins and a long, thin anal fin (gonopodium), while females are larger and rounder.
Care and habitat
Aquarium: A 10-gallon tank is the minimum size, but a larger tank is recommended, especially if keeping a group.
Water parameters: They are adaptable but prefer a temperature range of 64–82°F, with a pH between 5.5 and 8.0.
Tank mates: Flame guppies are peaceful and do well in community tanks, but avoid housing them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
Diet: They are omnivores and will readily accept a varied diet of flakes, granules, and occasional treats like bloodworms.
Other traits
Temperament: They are peaceful, active, and social fish.
Breeding: Breeding is very easy, and they are prolific livebearers.
Origin: They are native to South America, but their specific strain was developed through selective breeding.
The "flame guppy" is a vibrant and popular variety of the guppy fish (Poecilia reticulata) known for its bright red, orange, and yellow coloration that resembles flickering flames. These small, peaceful fish are easy to care for, making them suitable for beginner and community aquariums. Males are smaller with more vivid colors and elaborate fins, while females are larger and more muted.
Physical description
Coloration: The body is a bright blend of red, orange, and yellow, which can be solid or have gradients.
Fins: The dorsal and tail fins are often fiery in color and can have red edges and yellow cores.
Size: Males typically grow to about 1.5 inches (3.5–4 cm), while females are larger.
Body shape: Males have flowing fins and a long, thin anal fin (gonopodium), while females are larger and rounder.
Care and habitat
Aquarium: A 10-gallon tank is the minimum size, but a larger tank is recommended, especially if keeping a group.
Water parameters: They are adaptable but prefer a temperature range of 64–82°F, with a pH between 5.5 and 8.0.
Tank mates: Flame guppies are peaceful and do well in community tanks, but avoid housing them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
Diet: They are omnivores and will readily accept a varied diet of flakes, granules, and occasional treats like bloodworms.
Other traits
Temperament: They are peaceful, active, and social fish.
Breeding: Breeding is very easy, and they are prolific livebearers.
Origin: They are native to South America, but their specific strain was developed through selective breeding.
