Red Picta Guppy – Ultimate Guide for Micropoecilia picta

Red Picta Guppies, scientifically known as Micropoecilia picta, are a captivating species of tropical freshwater fish. These exquisite creatures boast vibrant colors and intricate patterns, making them a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts. Their delicate appearance and unique characteristics have earned them various names such as Scarlet Livebearer, Swamp Guppies, Painted Guppy, and Barrigudinho Guppy. In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of Red Picta Guppies, covering everything from their ideal tankmates and suitable aquarium conditions to their stunning body colorations and breeding habits.

Suitable Tankmates and Aquarium Conditions for Red Picta Guppies

Maintaining a Ratio of Females to Males

To ensure a harmonious aquarium environment, it’s essential to prevent any form of harassment among individual females. For Red Picta Guppies, it is recommended to maintain a ratio of two to three females for every male. This balance minimizes aggressive behavior and promotes a peaceful coexistence among the fish.

Tankmates for Red Picta Guppies

Red Picta Guppies are generally compatible with a variety of fish species. They get along well with X-ray Tetras and other peaceful shoaling fish. Consider introducing compatible species such as Cardinal Tetras, Black Darter Tetras, and Emerald Eye Rasboras to create a visually captivating community tank.

Freshwater vs Brackish Aquarium Environment

Red Picta Guppies thrive in freshwater aquariums, but they also appreciate slightly brackish conditions. Maintaining an ideal tank environment for these fish involves providing clean, well-aerated water with a temperature range of 72-82°F (22-28°C). While they can adapt to pure freshwater, offering slightly brackish water can enhance their health and coloration.

Spacious and Well-Established Aquarium

These active fish require ample swimming space, so it’s crucial to provide them with a spacious aquarium. Additionally, a mature and stable aquarium environment is beneficial for Red Picta Guppies. A well-established tank ensures optimal water quality and helps maintain stable parameters, which contributes to the overall well-being of the fish.

Filtration and Water Flow

Red Picta Guppies require adequate filtration to maintain excellent water quality. A reliable filtration system helps remove impurities and promotes a healthy aquatic environment. Additionally, these fish prefer gentle water flow in the aquarium, so adjust the flow rate accordingly to mimic their natural habitat.

Red Picta Guppies – Body Color

Male Red Picta Guppies display a captivating array of colors. Their bodies range from hues of red to orange, adorned with vivid black markings. The combination of vibrant shades and intricate patterns creates a visually stunning display, making these males the centerpiece of any aquarium.

Female Red Picta Guppies exhibit a more subtle coloration. They typically have silvery bodies with occasional gold markings or orange hues. While not as vibrant as the males, the females possess their own unique beauty, adding a touch of elegance to the tank.

How to Identify Male and Female Picta Swamp Guppies?

Distinction between Males and Females

In addition to the differences in coloration, male and female Red Picta Guppies vary in body size. Males are generally smaller and more colorful compared to their female counterparts. Another notable distinction is the presence of a gonopodium, a modified anal fin, found exclusively in males.

Read Also – Exploring the World of Guppy Fish: A Guide to Varieties and Care

Gravid Spot in Females

Female Red Picta Guppies have a gravid spot, a darkened area near their abdomen. This spot serves as an indicator of their reproductive state. As they prepare to give birth, the gravid spot becomes more prominent. Males, on the other hand, do not possess this characteristic.

Quick Facts about Red Picta Guppies

Natural Habitat and Habitat Requirements

Geographic Distribution

Red Picta Guppies inhabit a wide range of Central and South American countries. They can be found in freshwater and brackish water ecosystems throughout the region.

Natural Habitat Description

In their natural habitat, Red Picta Guppies prefer freshwater and brackish water environments, particularly drainage ditches and canals in swamplands. These areas offer them the necessary conditions for survival, including vegetation for cover and suitable water parameters.

Breeding Red Picta Guppy

Breeding Red Picta Guppies can present certain challenges, but successful breeders are rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and the joy of witnessing the birth of live young. To increase the yield of offspring, setting up a separate breeding tank is recommended.

When establishing a breeding tank for Red Picta Guppies, choose a suitable substrate and include plants that provide cover for the fry. This allows easy segregation of the adult fish from the newborns, ensuring their safety and survival.

Gestation and Birth of Fry

Female Red Picta Guppies have a gestation period of approximately 22-28 days, depending on various factors. They give birth to live young, and the fry are quick to seek refuge among the plants within the breeding tank. Providing ample hiding spots is essential to protect the fry from potential predation.

Diet and Feeding Requirements

Natural Feeding Behavior

Red Picta Guppies exhibit a diverse feeding behavior, consuming algae, plant-based nourishment, mosquito larvae, and small crustaceans in their natural habitat. It is important to emulate this diet in the aquarium to ensure their nutritional needs are met.

Recommended Foods for Red Picta Guppy

A balanced and nutritionally-rich diet is crucial for the well-being of Red Picta Guppies. Consider offering them a variety of foods, including dried foods, live/frozen/freeze-dried fare, and vegetable supplements. Providing a diverse diet helps maintain their vibrant colors and overall health.

Feeding Strategies for Fry

Newly hatched Red Picta Guppy fry require specially formulated powdered fry foods and microworms as their primary diet. As they grow, gradually introduce finely crushed flakes and baby brine shrimp to meet their increasing nutritional requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

#1 – How big do Red Picta Guppies grow?

Red Picta Guppies typically reach a size of about 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm) when fully grown.

#2 – What are some other names for Red Picta Guppies?

Red Picta Guppies are also known as Scarlet Livebearers, Swamp Guppies, Painted Guppies, and Barrigudinho Guppies.

#3 – Are Red Picta Guppies peaceful?

Yes, Red Picta Guppies are generally peaceful fish and can be kept with other peaceful species in a community aquarium.

Final Words

Red Picta Guppies are fascinating fish that add beauty and vibrancy to any aquarium. Understanding their suitable tankmates, ideal aquarium conditions, stunning body colorations, sexual dimorphism, natural habitat, breeding habits, and feeding requirements is essential for their proper care and well-being. By providing them with the right environment, nutrition, and attention, you can enjoy the captivating presence of these unique fish in your own aquatic oasis.

Reference: https://www.fishbase.se/summary/Micropoecilia-picta