Description
🐟 Platinum Red Tail Dumbo Ear Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata
Family: Poeciliidae
Origin: Selectively bred (tank-bred strain)
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
Gorgeous platinum white body with bright red tail.
Large, flowing “dumbo ears” (pectoral fins) make them stand out.
Peaceful, social, and active swimmers.
Males are smaller with brighter colors; females are larger and less vivid.
Hardy fish – suitable for both beginners and experienced hobbyists.
Livebearers – females give birth to live fry.
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality flake food, micro pellets, frozen/live food (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms), spirulina, blanched veggies.
Feeding: 1–2 times daily in small portions.
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (larger recommended for groups).
Filtration: Gentle filtration (sponge filter works well).
Substrate & Decor: Plants, moss, caves, and swimming space.
Water Change: 25–30% weekly.
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: Best kept in groups (ratio: 1 male to 2–3 females).
Tank Mates: Guppies, Platies, Mollies, Swordtails, Corydoras, Neon Tetras, Rasboras, Shrimp, Snails.
Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping fish like Tiger Barbs or large Cichlids.
✅ Do’s
Keep in groups for active social behavior.
Provide plants/hiding spots for fry survival.
Maintain stable water conditions for best coloration.
❌ Don’ts
Don’t overcrowd – they breed quickly.
Don’t mix with aggressive or territorial fish.
Don’t neglect regular cleaning and water testing.
⭐ Quick Tips
Eye-catching with their red tail and big dumbo fins.
Very easy to breed – great for guppy collections.
Perfect centerpiece fish for a planted community tank.
