The correct way to raise guppies

Guppies are small tropical fish native to Central America to Brazil, and are widely introduced as ornamental fish due to their brilliant coloration and beautiful shape. So how do we properly raise this kind of ornamental fish? Let’s learn more about it below.

1. Fish tank preparation

Guppies do not need to prepare a very large fish tank, the specific size can be determined according to the number of fish. At the same time, some decorations such as plants, rocks and caves should be set up in the fish tank to provide shelter and simulate the habitat of guppies in their natural environment. In addition, before raising guppies, the fish tank must be disinfected first. Potassium permanganate can be used for simple disinfection.

2. Water quality requirements

Guppies are suitable for living in slightly alkaline or neutral water, and breeders can control the pH value between 6.8-7.4. And because guppies are tropical fish, the water temperature is best controlled between 22-26 degrees, and the breeder can use a heating rod to keep the temperature constant.

3. Mixed breeding issues

Guppies are relatively gentle in temperament and will not actively attack other fish, so we can raise guppies together with some small fish, such as tetras , cardinal tetras, etc. But guppies cannot be raised together with big fish to avoid being swallowed by the big fish.

4. Feeding tips

Guppies are omnivorous fish, so when feeding them, you need to combine meat and vegetables. Live foods such as earthworms, bloodworms, and brine shrimps should be combined with artificial feed to achieve a balanced nutrition. At the same time, pay attention to the amount of food you feed. Generally, feed 1-3 times a day, and it is best if the fish finish eating each time within a few minutes and there is no residue in the fish tank.

5. Disease prevention

First, observe the health status of guppies regularly and deal with any abnormalities in a timely manner; second, pay attention to the quality and hygiene of feed, and avoid using expired or spoiled feed; third, check the fish tank and filter regularly to keep the water clean. Thereby effectively preventing the occurrence of diseases.

6. Reproduction management

Guppies have a strong reproductive capacity, but a certain breeding temperature must be maintained. Generally, the most suitable water temperature is 24°C and the hardness is about 8. When they are breeding, the guppies should be placed in a birthing box for delivery. Some water plants or moss can be placed at the bottom of the box to ensure that the fish can hide. In addition, guppy fry should be fished out immediately after birth to avoid being swallowed.

In general, it is relatively simple to raise guppies. They are hardy by nature and have strong vitality, making them the preferred species for many beginners. However, if you want to raise guppies well, you also need to pay attention to some breeding and management work, such as water quality, feeding and so on.