Tiger Elephant Ear Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)

Description:
The Tiger Elephant Ear Guppy is a striking guppy variety known for its bold tiger-like pattern and expansive, flowing fins. This particular guppy features a brilliant orange and black mosaic pattern on its large, fan-like tail, while its dorsal fin and body display iridescent shades with dark speckles. The pectoral fins are larger than typical guppies, resembling an "elephant ear" appearance, which enhances its elegant movement.

Size:
Up to 2 inches (5 cm)

Aquarium Size:
A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended for a small group, though larger tanks are preferred for better water stability and breeding colonies.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C)

• pH: 6.8 to 7.8

• Hardness: Moderate to hard

Temperament:
The Tiger Elephant Ear Guppy is a peaceful community fish. Males may occasionally display mild competitive behavior when kept together, but they generally coexist well with other peaceful species.

Group Size:
Best kept in groups of 6 or more. A ratio of 1 male to 2-3 females is ideal when keeping mixed groups to reduce stress on females and prevent excessive breeding.

Compatibility:
They are highly compatible with other peaceful species such as tetras, rasboras, corydoras catfish, and other livebearers. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species due to their delicate, flowing fins.

Diet:
Omnivorous. They thrive on a varied diet including high-quality guppy flakes, micro pellets, and frozen or live foods such as daphnia and brine shrimp. Vegetable matter like blanched spinach or spirulina-based foods can also be included.

Care Level:
Beginner. They are hardy and adaptable, making them an excellent choice for novice aquarists, though good water quality is essential for fin health.

Planted Aquarium:
Tiger Elephant Ear Guppies are ideal for planted aquariums. The plants provide cover, reduce stress, and help highlight their vibrant colors while contributing to water quality.

Invertebrate Compatibility:
Safe with peaceful invertebrates such as snails and larger shrimp species. However, they may prey on smaller shrimp fry.

Additional Notes:
Tiger Elephant Ear Guppies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to free-swimming fry. If breeding is not desired, consider keeping only males or providing ample cover for fry survival. Their flowing fins make them more vulnerable to fin damage, so avoid housing with aggressive tankmates.

Disclaimer:
Aquarium Arts cannot guarantee compatibility with your current fish or the fish you buy and cannot be held liable for fish lost due to aggression.