Black Moscow Guppy

The Black Moscow Guppy is a stunning and highly sought-after variety of the common guppy (Poecilia reticulata), prized for its deep, velvety black coloration and elegant appearance.

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Black Moscow Guppy Overview

• Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata

• Origin: Selective breeding (originally from Russia, now bred worldwide).

• Size:

  • Males: 1–1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm) – more vibrant, with flowing fins.

  • Females: 1.5–2.5 inches (4–6 cm) – slightly larger, less intense black.

• Lifespan: 1.5–3 years (with optimal care).

• Temperament: Peaceful, active, and social (best kept in groups).

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Appearance & Varieties

✔ Jet-Black Body: Intense, solid black covering most of the body (including fins in high-quality strains).
✔ Metallic Sheen: Some have a slight blue or purple iridescence under light.
✔ Tail Types:

• Delta Tail (triangular)

• Round Tail

• Lyretail (double-sword extension)

⚠ Note: Females may show slight gray or silver patches, while males are darker.

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Care Requirements

Tank Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (for a small group).

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

  • pH: 6.8–7.8 (slightly alkaline preferred)

  • Hardness: Moderate to hard water (dGH 8–12).

• Filtration: Gentle flow (sponge filter ideal).

• Lighting: Moderate (dark substrate enhances their color).

• Decor: Live plants (Java fern, Anubias), hiding spots, and open swimming space.

Diet

• High-protein foods (color-enhancing flakes, pellets).

• Live/Frozen: Brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia.

• Vegetables: Blanched spinach or peas (for digestion).

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Tank Mates

✅ Good Companions:

• Other peaceful guppies (e.g., Endlers, fancy guppies).

• Small tetras (Neons, Embers).

• Corydoras catfish & dwarf shrimp (Cherry shrimp).
  ❌ Avoid:

• Fin-nippers (Tiger barbs, some danios).

• Aggressive fish (Bettas may attack long fins).

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Breeding Black Moscow Guppies

• Livebearers: Females give birth to 20–50 fry every 4–6 weeks.

• Breeding Tips:

  • Use a 1 male:2–3 female ratio to reduce stress.

  • Provide floating plants (like hornwort) for fry hiding spots.

  • Separate pregnant females to a breeding box before birth.

• Fry Care:

  • Feed baby brine shrimp, powdered fry food, or crushed flakes.

  • Maintain clean water (small, frequent water changes).

⚠ Challenge: Maintaining pure Black Moscow traits requires selective breeding (cull weak/off-color fry).

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Common Health Issues

• Fin Rot (treat with clean water & antibiotics if severe).

• Ich (White Spot Disease) – raise temp to 86°F + salt/medication.

• Bacterial Infections – quarantine new fish before adding.

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Why Choose Black Moscow Guppies?

✨ Striking Contrast – Looks stunning in planted tanks.
✨ Rarity – High-quality strains are prized by collectors.
✨ Easy to Breed – Great for beginners learning selective breeding.

Would you like tips on where to buy high-quality Black Moscow guppies or how to enhance their color? 😊