Amazon Guppy
Scientific Name: Micropoecilia bifurca
Common Names: Amazon Guppy, Kleiner Amazonen-Kärpfling, Forked-Tail Poecilia
Family: Poeciliidae
Origin: South America (Amazon River basin, including Guyana; shallow streams, creeks, and pools)
Size: 1–1.2 inches (2.5–3 cm); females slightly larger
Lifespan: 1–2 years with proper care
Behavior: Peaceful, active, and schooling. Thrives in groups of 6–12 to promote schooling behavior and reduce stress. Males display subtle courtship behaviors with fin movements, while females are livebearers, giving birth to free-swimming fry.
Temperature: 74–80°F (24–27°C); avoid prolonged exposure above 82°F.
pH: 6.5–7.5 (neutral to slightly alkaline).
Compatible with peaceful nano fish like small tetras, rasboras, or dwarf corydoras. Safe with larger shrimp (e.g., Amano Shrimp) in planted tanks, though shrimplets may be eaten. Avoid aggressive or large fish that may outcompete or stress them.