Description
🐟 Chilli Mosaic Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata
Family: Poeciliidae
Origin: South America
Size: 1.5 – 2.5 inches (3.5 – 6 cm)
Lifespan: 2 – 3 years
Tank Zone: Mid to top swimmers
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 200 – 400 ppm
pH: 6.8 – 7.8
Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)
Hardness: 8 – 20 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Known for its fiery red-orange “chilli” colors with a mosaic pattern tail.
Peaceful, active, and easy to keep.
Males show brighter colors, females are bigger but less vibrant.
Livebearer – females give birth to live fry.
Adds striking red contrast in a community tank.
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality flakes, micro pellets, spirulina, live/frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms), blanched veggies.
Feeding: 1–2 times daily in small amounts.
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (larger for groups).
Filtration: Gentle sponge or HOB filter.
Substrate & Decor: Live plants (good for fry), driftwood, hiding spaces, and open swimming area.
Water Change: 25–30% weekly.
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: 1 male with 2–3 females (better ratio).
Tank Mates: Mollies, Platies, Swordtails, Tetras, Corydoras, Shrimp, peaceful Gouramis.
Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
✅ Do’s
Keep stable water parameters.
Provide plenty of plants for fry survival.
Keep them in groups for active behavior.
❌ Don’ts
Don’t overcrowd (they breed quickly).
Don’t keep with aggressive tank mates.
Don’t expose to sudden temperature or pH changes.
⭐ Quick Tips
Great choice for beginners and community tanks.
Easy breeders – females give birth every 4–6 weeks.
Their bright red mosaic tails make them one of the most eye-catching guppy varieties
