Blue Cobra Guppy Breeding Pair

The Blue Cobra Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is a striking and popular freshwater fish known for its vibrant coloration and distinctive patterns. Here’s a detailed description of this beautiful aquarium fish:

Appearance:

• Coloration: The Blue Cobra Guppy boasts a mesmerizing combination of vivid blues, often mixed with shades of turquoise and iridescent hues. The intensity of the blue can vary, creating a dynamic visual effect.
• Pattern: This guppy features a unique "cobra" pattern, characterized by intricate, snake-like markings along its body. These patterns can include spots, lines, and other intricate designs, adding to its allure.
• Fins: The fins of the Blue Cobra Guppy are equally impressive, often exhibiting the same blue coloration with additional markings. Males typically have larger and more flamboyant fins compared to females, including a flowing tail fin (caudal fin) that may show vibrant blue and patterned streaks.

Size:

• Males: Usually grow up to 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 5 cm) in length.
• Females: Slightly larger, reaching up to 2.5 inches (6 cm).

Behavior:

• Temperament: Blue Cobra Guppies are peaceful and social, making them ideal for community tanks. They thrive in groups and are known for their active and playful nature.
• Tank Position: These guppies are mid-to-top dwellers, frequently seen swimming in the upper levels of the aquarium.

Care Requirements:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended, with larger tanks preferred for groups.
• Water Conditions: Ideal water temperature is between 72-82°F (22-28°C), with a pH range of 6.8 to 7.8.
• Diet: Blue Cobra Guppies are omnivores. A balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake food, live or frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms will keep them healthy and vibrant.
• Maintenance: Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) and good filtration are essential to maintain water quality.

Breeding:

• Reproduction: Blue Cobra Guppies are prolific breeders. Males have a specialized anal fin (gonopodium) for fertilization. Females give birth to live young (fry) after a gestation period of about 28-30 days.
• Fry Care: To increase fry survival rates, provide plenty of hiding spaces with plants and consider separating the fry from adult fish.

Tank Mates:

• Suitable tank mates include other peaceful community fish such as tetras, mollies, platys, and corydoras catfish. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species.