Guppy
Poecilia reticulata
Identification
The guppy is one of the world's most recognizable aquarium fish. Males are just 3 to 5 cm with colorful tail and dorsal fins in every conceivable color and pattern. Females are larger (to 6 cm) but plain grey-green. Feral specimens quickly revert to a more modest color pattern.
Ecology
The guppy is a live-bearing fish from tropical South America and the Caribbean. Females produce live young every 4 to 6 weeks — an enormous reproductive potential. Extremely adaptable, thriving in various water types. Optimal temperature above 20°C.
In the Netherlands
Guppies are regularly found near warm-water discharges from power plants and in heated urban waters. These populations survive thanks to elevated water temperature but are not cold-hardy and disappear when the heat source is removed. All are released or escaped aquarium fish.
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Seasonal patterns
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Key predictors
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