Guppies are perhaps the most famous and popular aquarium fish on the planet. Even those who have never kept an aquarium at home are familiar with them. This is because they are often the starting point for this hobby.
These small, bright fish are not only beautiful but also surprisingly hardy. They can forgive some mistakes made by novice aquarists, making them ideal pets for a first experience. They are interesting to watch, as they are always on the move.
But their main feature is their amazing ability to reproduce. Guppies do not lay eggs, but give birth to fry that are already fully ready for life. That is why in the English-speaking world they are often called “million fish.”
In this article, we will talk about how to create comfortable conditions for them, what to feed them, and how to care for their offspring. You will learn what has made these modest fish so beloved for many decades.
- Classification by body color
- Classification of guppies by body color
- Classification by tail shape
- Classification of guppies by tail shape
- Classification by body pattern
- Guppy classification by body pattern
- Classification by tail pattern
- Classification of guppies by tail pattern (Leopard and Mosaic)
- Classification of guppies by tail pattern (Grass and Lace)
Classification by body color
Classification of guppies by body color
Illustration of the differences in body coloration between guppy varieties
There are three main color variations: solid (red, yellow, green, blue), variegated multicolored, and neon, sometimes called metallic. While the characteristics of the first two are quite obvious, the third variety requires explanation. The fact is that neon guppies have additional cells in their bodies called iridophores, which are not found in other species. Thanks to these cells, the coloration has a metallic sheen, and the colors themselves can be very diverse.
Classification by tail shape
This is probably the only universally recognized classification of guppies that can be found among breeders around the world. It was developed in the early 2000s and includes 12 varieties.
Classification of guppies by tail shape
Illustration of twelve varieties of guppies, differing in tail shape
In 2015, the 1st Intercontinental Guppy Championship was held in Dortmund at the Aqua EXPO Tage venue, where four new guppy varieties with previously unknown tail fin shapes were presented: “crescent,” “ribbon,” “swallow,” and “crown.”
Since then, there have been proposals to expand the classification to 16 varieties, and they can already be found in some sources.
Classification by body pattern
Guppy classification by body pattern
Illustration of differences in body pattern between three varieties of guppy fish: Tuxedo, Cobra, Snakeskin
Tuxedo — the front part of the body is lighter than the back. The contrast is most pronounced in black and white varieties, resembling a tuxedo in color.
Cobra — the body has vertical stripes and spots, the shade of which differs from the main color.
Snakeskin — the body is decorated with a pattern of numerous rosettes that merge into one another. The coloration can include gold, black, and orange patterns.
Guppies are bright, undemanding fish that have long been favorites of aquarists around the world. They are easy to keep, thrive in small aquariums, and reproduce quickly. Thanks to the variety of colors and fin shapes, they look like living beads floating in the water. Guppies are suitable even for beginners, and with minimal care, they will delight you with their active behavior and beauty.
Classification by tail pattern
Classification of guppies by tail pattern (Leopard and Mosaic)
Illustration of the differences in the tail pattern of guppies between the Leopard and Mosaic varieties
Leopard — a pattern consisting of a series of rounded intersecting spots, sometimes forming uneven lines, vaguely resembling the pattern on a leopard's body.
Mosaic — a pattern consisting of numerous dark speckles and spots that connect with each other and form an irregular pattern.
Classification of guppies by tail pattern (Grass and Lace)
Illustration of the differences in the tail pattern of Guppies between the Grass and Lace varieties
Grass — is a further development of the “Leopard” coloration. It is distinguished by smaller, unconnected spots, which, according to breeders, resemble a scattering of grass seeds.
Lace — the pattern consists of a thin mesh structure resembling a woven web. It is most often combined with the “snake skin” body pattern.
It should be noted that classifications may vary depending on the author. This article does not claim to be absolutely accurate, but merely offers a universal method of systematizing such a diverse group.
As you can see, guppies are not just small and inconspicuous fish. Behind their bright appearance lies amazing vitality and interesting behavior. They are the perfect choice for beginners in aquarium keeping, bringing joy to both novices and experienced enthusiasts.
Keeping these fish is a fascinating process that can teach you a lot. By observing their lives, you will learn the basics of caring for the aquatic world, and breeding will allow you to become a true creator, producing new colorful varieties.
Ultimately, guppies prove that true beauty and interest in an aquarium do not always require complex conditions. Their cheerful bustle and willingness to delight their owner every day make these fish truly special and beloved inhabitants of home aquariums around the world.
