Moscow Blue Guppy Care Guide: Breeding, Tank Setup, and Tips

The Moscow Blue Guppy is one of the most captivating and sought-after guppy strains in the aquarium hobby. With its shimmering blue hues and graceful swimming behavior, this guppy is a true showstopper. Whether you’re a beginner aquarist or a seasoned breeder, the Moscow Blue Guppy offers an excellent combination of beauty, hardiness, and breeding potential.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the Moscow Blue Guppy, from its origins and appearance to care, breeding, tank setup, and frequently asked questions. Let’s dive into the world of this aquatic gem.

What is a Moscow Blue Guppy?

The Moscow Blue Guppy is a selectively bred strain of guppy (Poecilia reticulata) known for its deep blue, almost metallic coloration that spans across the entire body. It originates from the Moscow strain of guppies, which was developed in Russia and is renowned for its solid, uniform coloring.

Unlike many guppy varieties that display multi-colored or patterned tails, the Moscow Blue Guppy boasts a consistent blue coloration from head to tail. This makes it highly desirable among guppy enthusiasts and aquascaping lovers alike.

Appearance

The standout feature of the Moscow Blue Guppy is its solid, iridescent blue coloration. This strain comes in both long-fin and short-fin varieties, with males typically being more vibrantly colored than females.

Male vs. Female

• Males: Slender, more colorful, and have long flowing tails. The blue in males is more intense and can shimmer with metallic tones under aquarium lighting.
• Females: Larger and rounder in body shape, with subtler blue tones. They may appear more grayish-blue or steel blue.

Size

• Males: 1.2 to 1.5 inches (3–4 cm)
• Females: 1.5 to 2.5 inches (4–6 cm)

Tail Shapes

Moscow Blue Guppies are often found with various tail shapes including:

• Delta tail
• Fan tail
• Swordtail (rare)
• Round tail

Origins and History

The Moscow guppy line was originally developed in Russia during the late 20th century. These guppies were bred selectively for their solid body color and size. Over time, hobbyists developed a variety of color morphs within the Moscow line, including Moscow Black, Moscow Green, and of course, the striking Moscow Blue.

Today, Moscow Blue Guppies are bred worldwide and are considered premium strains in both amateur and professional guppy circles.

Care Guide

Despite their exotic appearance, Moscow Blue Guppies are surprisingly easy to care for. They are resilient and can thrive in a well-maintained tank, making them suitable for beginners.

Tank Requirements

Lighting

LED or full-spectrum lighting will enhance the reflective blue of the Moscow guppy’s body. Avoid overly harsh lighting as it can stress the fish.

Plants and Decorations

Moscow Blue Guppies thrive in planted tanks. Consider adding:

• Java Moss
• Guppy Grass
• Anubias
• Water Sprite

These provide shelter and breeding areas while also improving water quality.

Diet and Feeding

Moscow Blue Guppies are omnivores and enjoy a varied diet.

Recommended Foods:

• High-quality flake food
• Micro pellets
• Frozen or live foods: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms
• Vegetable matter: blanched spinach, spirulina

Feed them 2–3 small meals per day, ensuring no excess food settles in the tank.

Breeding Moscow Blue Guppies

One of the most exciting aspects of owning Moscow Blue Guppies is their ease of breeding. Guppies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to free-swimming fry rather than laying eggs.

Breeding Setup

• Separate breeding tank: 10–20 gallons
• Water temperature: 78°F–80°F
• Use dense plants or breeding boxes for fry safety

Mating Ratio

Always keep a 1:2 or 1:3 male-to-female ratio to reduce female stress and aggression.

Gestation and Fry

• Gestation period: ~28 days
• Fry count: 20–50 per brood (can be higher with mature females)
• Separate fry from adults to prevent predation

Raising Fry

Feed them:

• Baby brine shrimp
• Crushed flakes
• Microworms
• Liquid fry food

Provide good filtration and daily water changes for optimal growth and color development.

Common Health Issues

While Moscow Blue Guppies are hardy, they can still face common aquarium fish diseases:

1. Ich (White Spot Disease)

Symptoms: Small white dots on body and fins
Treatment: Raise water temperature slightly and use Ich treatment.

2. Fin Rot

Symptoms: Ragged or decaying fins
Treatment: Improve water quality and use antibacterial medication.

3. Dropsy

Symptoms: Swollen belly, pinecone scales
Treatment: Difficult to treat; isolate fish and use antibacterial meds.

Prevention Tips:

• Maintain pristine water conditions
• Quarantine new fish
• Don’t overfeed
• Regular water changes

Tank Mates for Moscow Blue Guppies

Moscow Blue Guppies are peaceful and social, but care should be taken to avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species.

Ideal Tank Mates:

• Other guppies
• Neon Tetras
• Corydoras Catfish
• Platies
• Mollies
• Otocinclus
• Shrimp (Amano or Cherry)

Avoid:

• Tiger Barbs
• Large Cichlids
• Betta Fish (sometimes aggressive to guppies)

Why Choose the Moscow Blue Guppy?

Here are several reasons aquarists love this guppy strain:

✅ Unique Coloration

Its deep, shimmering blue sets it apart from typical guppies.

✅ Easy to Breed

Great for breeding projects and learning about genetics.

✅ Hardy and Adaptable

Perfect for both beginners and advanced aquarists.

✅ Adds Vibrancy to Aquascapes

The electric blue coloration enhances any planted aquarium.

✅ Active and Entertaining

Constant swimming and social behavior provide endless enjoyment.

Tips for Enhancing Color

Want to bring out the best blue hues? Follow these tips:

• Use dark backgrounds and substrates
• Provide high-quality food with color enhancers (like spirulina and astaxanthin)
• Use gentle lighting that highlights iridescence
• Avoid overcrowding and stress
• Maintain pristine water conditions

Types of Moscow Blue Guppy

While the term “Moscow Blue Guppy” typically refers to the deep, metallic blue strain developed from the Moscow line, selective breeding has produced several variations within this strain. These types are often classified based on tail shape, fin length, or hybrid combinations with other guppy strains.

1. Moscow Blue Delta Tail Guppy

• Description: This is the most common variety of Moscow Blue Guppy. It features a broad, triangular “delta”-shaped tail that spreads out symmetrically.
• Highlights: Elegant swimming style and a fully blue tail that fans out beautifully.
• Popularity: High among breeders and aquascapers.

2. Moscow Blue Swordtail Guppy

• Description: Features a long, narrow extension from the bottom or both top and bottom of the tail (swordtail or double sword).
• Highlights: Unique tail structure adds visual interest; males are especially striking.
• Note: Less common than delta tail.

3. Moscow Blue Round Tail Guppy

• Description: This variety has a rounded, circular tail with smooth edges.
• Highlights: Compact and less prone to fin damage; suitable for community tanks.
• Best For: Aquarists who want a balance of beauty and resilience.

4. Moscow Blue Fan Tail Guppy

• Description: Wide tail fin shaped like an open fan, with symmetrical flare.
• Highlights: Adds a dramatic effect when viewed from behind or above.
• Variation: Often confused with delta tail but generally has a slightly rounder edge.

5. Moscow Blue Dumbo Ear Guppy (Big Ear)

• Description: A cross between the Moscow Blue and Dumbo Ear strains, resulting in large, extended pectoral fins resembling elephant ears.
• Highlights: The pectoral fins are often translucent or slightly blue, fluttering elegantly as the fish swims.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Highly decorative, especially in planted aquariums.

6. Moscow Blue Halfmoon Guppy

• Description: This rare type features a large tail that spreads 180 degrees, resembling a half-moon.
• Highlights: High aesthetic value; often used in competitions and shows.
• Caution: Delicate fins require pristine water conditions.

7. Moscow Blue Short-Fin Guppy

• Description: Bred with shorter fins for ease of movement and durability.
• Highlights: Easier to care for; less prone to fin rot or tearing.
• Ideal For: High-flow tanks or those with active community fish.

8. Moscow Blue Albino Guppy

• Description: A hybrid where the fish maintains the Moscow Blue coloring but has red or pink albino eyes.
• Highlights: The albino gene lightens the blue tone slightly, giving a softer appearance.
• Rare and Sought-After: Especially among breeders looking for unique combinations.

9. Moscow Blue Lace Guppy

• Description: A variation that has subtle lace-like patterns on the tail or fins, sometimes created through crossbreeding with lace guppies.
• Highlights: A blend of texture and color, adding a touch of refinement to the solid blue.

10. Moscow Blue Grass Tail Guppy

• Description: This type features a speckled or dotted tail resembling grass patterns, combined with the Moscow Blue body.
• Highlights: Often shimmering with micro-patterns that complement the rich body color.

FAQs About Moscow Blue Guppy

Q1: Are Moscow Blue Guppies rare?

A: Yes, they are considered one of the rarer and more premium guppy strains due to their unique solid color and selective breeding lineage.

Q2: Can Moscow Blue Guppies live with Betta fish?

A: It depends on the Betta’s temperament. Some Bettas may nip at guppies’ fins, especially colorful males. Proceed with caution.

Q3: How many Moscow Blue Guppies should I keep?

A: A group of 6 or more is ideal. Ensure at least a 1:2 male-to-female ratio to reduce stress.

Q4: What’s the lifespan of Moscow Blue Guppies?

A: Typically 2 to 3 years, but with excellent care, some live slightly longer.

Q5: How can I tell if a female is pregnant?

A: Look for a swollen belly and a dark gravid spot near the tail. Behaviorally, she may isolate herself and become less active.

Q6: Do Moscow Blue Guppies need a heater?

A: Yes, especially in cooler climates. Maintaining stable water temperatures between 75–80°F ensures optimal health.

Q7: Can they live in a bowl?

A: It’s not recommended. Guppies need filtration, stable parameters, and swimming space—best provided in a proper tank setup.

Q8: How do I maintain their vibrant blue color?

A: Provide color-enhancing food, good lighting, and clean water. Avoid stress and choose dark substrates to make the blue pop.

Conclusion

The Moscow Blue Guppy is more than just a pretty face in the aquarium world—it’s a blend of beauty, elegance, and charm wrapped in shimmering blue. Whether you’re a hobbyist looking to enhance your aquascape or a breeder exploring guppy genetics, the Moscow Blue offers an unmatched experience.

With proper care, tank setup, and attention to detail, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning display of vibrant aquatic life and potentially even the joy of raising new generations of blue beauties.