Red crowntail guppy pairs (wild)

Dramatic, exotic, and strikingly beautiful — the Red Crowntail Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is a stunning fancy guppy strain that combines the bold red colouration of a premium guppy with the dramatic, spiky crown-like tail of the crowntail fin type. Sold as pairs (one male, one female), this is a perfect choice for hobbyists looking to start or expand a breeding project with a truly eye-catching strain.

Overview

Appearance

Males display a vivid red body with a spectacular crowntail caudal fin — the fin rays extend beyond the webbing, creating a dramatic, spiky crown-like appearance that sets this strain apart from standard guppy tail types. The deep red colouration extends through the body and fins, creating a bold, uniform look. Females are larger and less colourful but carry the genetics to produce beautifully coloured offspring.

Water Parameters & Tank Setup

• Temperature: 72 – 82°F (22 – 28°C)
• pH: 7.0 – 8.0
• General Hardness (GH): 8 – 20 dGH
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons
• Lighting: Moderate — enhances their red colouration
• Substrate: Dark substrate makes their red tones pop
• Plants & Decor: Planted tanks with floating plants for fry cover and open swimming space

Diet & Feeding

• Staple: High-quality flake food or micro pellets
• Treats: Baby brine shrimp, daphnia, micro worms, and blanched vegetables
• Tip: Colour-enhancing foods rich in carotenoids help maintain their vivid red hues

Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.

Compatibility & Tank Mates

• Other peaceful guppy strains and livebearers
• Small tetras and rasboras
• Corydoras catfish
• Dwarf shrimp (with caution)

Avoid fin-nipping species to protect the male's dramatic crowntail fins.

Breeding

Guppies are livebearers and breed readily. Females give birth to live fry every 4–6 weeks. Provide floating plants or a breeding box to protect fry. Fry can be fed crushed flake food or baby brine shrimp from birth and will begin showing colour and fin development within a few weeks.

The Red Crowntail Guppy is a dramatic and beautiful fish that combines the elegance of a premium guppy with the exotic flair of the crowntail fin type. A wonderful pair for any guppy enthusiast or community tank keeper.