Description
🐟 Lava Red Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)
📌 Basic Info
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Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata
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Family: Poeciliidae
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Origin: South America
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Size: 1.5 – 2.5 inches (3.5 – 6 cm)
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Lifespan: 2 – 3 years
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Tank Zone: Mostly mid to top swimmers
🌊 Water Parameters
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TDS: 200 – 400 ppm
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pH: 6.8 – 7.8
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Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)
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Hardness: 8 – 20 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
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Bright, fiery red body and tail – very eye-catching.
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Hardy, peaceful, and very active.
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Males are smaller and more colorful; females larger and rounder.
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Livebearers – give birth to free-swimming fry.
🍽️ Food
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Type: Omnivorous
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Diet: Flakes, micro pellets, baby brine shrimp, daphnia, spirulina, blanched veggies.
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Feeding: 1–2 times daily in small amounts.
🛠️ Maintenance
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Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (larger for groups).
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Filtration: Gentle to moderate.
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Decor: Plants, hiding spots, and swimming space.
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Water Change: 25–30% weekly.
👥 Social Behavior
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Minimum Group Size: 1 male to 2–3 females.
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Tank Mates: Mollies, Platies, Swordtails, Corydoras, small Tetras, Shrimp.
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Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nippers.
✅ Do’s
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Keep in groups for best behavior.
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Add plants for fry survival.
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Maintain stable water.
❌ Don’ts
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Don’t overcrowd (they breed fast).
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Don’t keep with aggressive fish.
⭐ Quick Tips
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Great for beginners.
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Breed very easily.
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Their glowing red makes them stand out in community tanks.
