The Blue Koi Guppy is a striking variety of guppy (Poecilia reticulata) prized for its vibrant coloration and unique pattern. This fish combines the bold, contrasting colors of a koi fish with the graceful beauty and iridescence of guppies. It is a relatively new addition to the guppy world and has become a favorite among aquarists for its aesthetic appeal.

Key Characteristics:

• Appearance:
  • Body Coloration: Typically features a blue base with patches of orange, red, and white, mimicking the pattern of koi fish.
  • Fins: Long, flowing fins with a combination of blue and white, sometimes with red or orange highlights.
  • Sexual Dimorphism: Males are more colorful and smaller, while females are larger and have a subtler coloration.
• Size:
  • Males: 1–1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm).
  • Females: 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm).
• Lifespan: 1–2 years, though they may live longer with excellent care.
• Temperament: Peaceful and social. They thrive in groups and make excellent community fish.

Habitat and Care:

• Tank Size:
  • A minimum of 10 gallons is suitable for a small group, but 20 gallons or larger is ideal for maintaining stable water conditions.
• Water Conditions:
  • Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C).
  • pH: 6.8–7.8.
  • Hardness: Moderately hard water (8–12 dGH).
• Diet:
  • Omnivorous. To enhance their vibrant colors, provide a varied diet:
    • High-quality flakes or guppy-specific pellets.
    • Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms.
    • Vegetable supplements such as blanched spinach or zucchini.
• Tank Setup:
  • Plant the tank with live vegetation like guppy grass, java moss, or hornwort, which also provides hiding spots for fry.
  • Ensure gentle filtration to avoid stressing their delicate fins.
  • A dark substrate can help their colors stand out.

Breeding:

• Reproductive Behavior:
  • Guppies are prolific livebearers. Males will court females, and after mating, females can give birth to fry every 30 days, even without further contact with a male (due to stored sperm).
• Breeding Tank:
  • Set up a separate tank with plenty of hiding spots (plants or breeding traps) for the fry.
  • Maintain stable water conditions and a temperature around 78°F (26°C) for optimal breeding.
• Fry Care:
  • Feed fry with crushed flakes, liquid fry food, or baby brine shrimp.
  • Separate fry from adults to prevent predation.

Special Considerations for Blue Koi Guppies:

• Color Intensity: Proper lighting, a varied diet, and stress-free living conditions enhance their vibrant blue and koi-like patterns.
• Tankmates:
  • Choose peaceful species like tetras, Corydoras, or other small livebearers. Avoid fin-nipping species like tiger barbs.
• Health:
  • Regular water changes and good tank hygiene are crucial to prevent diseases like fin rot or ich, which can affect guppies’ delicate fins.