Among the most breathtaking freshwater aquarium fish is the Moscow Purple Guppy, a selectively bred strain known for its dazzling, solid purple coloration and graceful fins. Unlike traditional guppies with mixed patterns and multi-colored bodies, Moscow guppies are admired for their uniform, full-bodied colors that extend from head to tail.

The Moscow Purple Guppy is a standout in any aquarium. Its shimmering purple sheen, combined with its hardiness and adaptability, makes it one of the most sought-after guppy strains among aquarists and breeders worldwide. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hobbyist, this guide will help you understand everything about Moscow Purple Guppies—from care and feeding to breeding and aquascaping.

Origins of the Moscow Purple Guppy

The Moscow strain has an interesting history. It originated in Russia in the 1980s, where breeders worked to develop guppies with deep, solid body colors. Unlike the traditional spotted and patterned guppies, the Moscow line was unique because of its full-body pigmentation.

The Moscow Purple Guppy is a variation within this line, selectively bred for its rich purple coloration. Over time, this variety gained popularity in Europe, Asia, and North America due to its rarity and visual appeal.

Appearance of Moscow Purple Guppy

The Moscow Purple Guppy is considered one of the most visually stunning guppies due to its unique color and elegant fins.

• Body Color: A shimmering metallic purple that can range from light violet to deep royal purple depending on lighting.
• Fins: Long, flowing fins, often solid purple but may have hints of black or blue.
• Size: Males typically reach 1.5–2 inches, while females are slightly larger at 2–2.5 inches.
• Sexual Dimorphism: Males are more colorful and slender, while females are larger and bulkier with less intense coloration.
• Unique Trait: The solid purple hue that covers the entire body is rare among guppy strains, making Moscow Purple a prized choice for breeders.

Ideal Tank Setup for Moscow Purple Guppies

Tank Size

• A small group of Moscow Purple Guppies can live in a 10-gallon aquarium, but a 20–30 gallon tank is recommended for breeding colonies.

Water Parameters

Like other guppies, the Moscow Purple thrives in stable water conditions:

• Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
• pH: 6.8–7.8
• Hardness: 8–12 dGH
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: Below 20 ppm

Filtration

• A sponge filter or gentle hang-on-back filter works best.
• Avoid strong currents, as Moscow guppies prefer calmer waters.

Substrate and Decor

• Substrate: Fine gravel or sand.
• Plants: Java moss, Anubias, Vallisneria, and Guppy grass create a natural environment.
• Decor: Driftwood, lava rocks, or dragon stones provide hiding places and enhance aesthetics.

Diet and Feeding

Moscow Purple Guppies are omnivorous and need a balanced diet for optimal health and vibrant colors.

Best Food Options

1. Staple Foods: High-quality guppy flakes or micro pellets.
2. Protein Sources: Brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and mosquito larvae.
3. Vegetables: Spirulina flakes, blanched spinach, and zucchini.

Feeding Schedule

• Feed 2–3 times daily in small portions.
• Remove uneaten food to prevent water contamination.
• Rotate diet to boost immune system and enhance coloration.

Behavior and Temperament

• Peaceful and Social: Ideal for community aquariums.
• Active Swimmers: They are lively and constantly display their fins.
• Group-Oriented: Prefer being in groups of 5–6 or more.
• Compatibility: Compatible with mollies, platies, neon tetras, corydoras, and shrimp. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping fish.

Breeding Moscow Purple Guppies

Moscow Purple Guppies are livebearers, giving birth to free-swimming fry rather than laying eggs.

Breeding Tank

• A 10–15 gallon tank works for breeding.
• Provide dense plants or breeding grass to protect fry.

Ratio and Gestation

• Maintain a 1 male to 2–3 female ratio.
• Gestation Period: 21–30 days.
• Pregnant females show a dark gravid spot and a swollen belly.

Fry Care

• Separate fry from adults to prevent predation.
• Feed infusoria, baby brine shrimp, and crushed flakes.
• Keep water clean with frequent small water changes.

Health and Disease Prevention

Common Diseases

1. Ich (White Spot): Small white spots; treat with heat and aquarium medication.
2. Fin Rot: Ragged fins caused by bacteria; treat with antibacterial remedies.
3. Velvet Disease: Golden dust-like appearance; treat with copper-based medication.
4. Dropsy: Severe bloating, often fatal if untreated.

Prevention Tips

• Perform 25–30% weekly water changes.
• Quarantine new fish for at least 2 weeks before adding to the main tank.
• Avoid overfeeding to prevent water quality issues.
• Provide a varied, nutrient-rich diet.

Moscow Purple Guppy in Aquascaping

The Moscow Purple Guppy is a favorite for aquascaping enthusiasts because of its vibrant solid color.

Why They Shine in Aquascapes

• Their royal purple coloration contrasts beautifully against green plants.
• They add movement and vibrancy to planted tanks.
• Their solid color makes them perfect as centerpiece fish.

Aquascaping Styles

1. Nature Aquarium: With driftwood and lush greenery, their purple sheen stands out.
2. Minimalist Design: A dark substrate and stones highlight their body color.
3. Community Aquascape: Combine with peaceful species for a natural ecosystem look.

Lighting

• Use full-spectrum LED lighting to bring out their purple hues.
• Avoid overly intense lighting that encourages algae.

Advantages of Moscow Purple Guppy

1. Striking Appearance: Rich purple coloration is rare and attractive.
2. Hardy Nature: Adaptable to a wide range of water conditions.
3. Breeding Potential: Easy to breed and produce large fry numbers.
4. Community Friendly: Peaceful and compatible with many species.
5. Collector’s Fish: Highly sought after by breeders and hobbyists.

Challenges of Keeping Moscow Purple Guppy

1. Overpopulation: Rapid breeders that can quickly overcrowd tanks.
2. Fin Nipping Risk: Their long fins attract aggressive fish.
3. Disease Sensitivity: Prone to ich and bacterial infections in poor water quality.
4. Strain Purity: Maintaining true purple coloration requires careful breeding.

Moscow Purple Guppy vs Other Moscow Strains

Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Success

• Perform regular water changes to maintain water quality.
• Use live plants for oxygenation and fry shelter.
• Provide nutrient-rich foods to maintain vibrant colors.
• Control population by separating males and females when necessary.
• Monitor for disease and treat early to prevent outbreaks.

Conclusion

The Moscow Purple Guppy is one of the most spectacular guppy strains available. With its solid purple coloration, peaceful temperament, and adaptability, it is a true gem for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

Whether you want a showpiece for your aquascape, a breeding project, or a vibrant community fish, Moscow Purple Guppies are an excellent choice. By providing the right tank setup, a nutritious diet, and proper care, you can enjoy the beauty and elegance of this guppy for years to come.

FAQs About Moscow Purple Guppy

Q1. How long do Moscow Purple Guppies live?
They typically live 2–3 years with proper care.

Q2. Do Moscow Purple Guppies need a heater?
Yes, they need a tropical temperature range of 74–82°F.

Q3. How can I enhance the purple coloration of my guppies?
Provide a diet rich in spirulina, brine shrimp, and color-enhancing flakes, along with good aquarium lighting.

Q4. Are Moscow Purple Guppies rare?
Yes, they are considered rarer than other Moscow strains and are highly prized by breeders.

Q5. Can Moscow Purple Guppies live with shrimp?
Yes, they are peaceful and compatible with shrimp like cherry and Amano shrimp.

Q6. How often should I feed them?
Feed 2–3 times daily in small portions they can consume within 2 minutes.

Q7. How many fry do Moscow Purple Guppies produce?
Females can give birth to 20–40 fry every 4–6 weeks.

Q8. Do Moscow Purple Guppies require live plants?
Not mandatory, but live plants improve water quality and provide hiding spaces for fry.

Q9. Can Moscow Purple Guppies live in a nano tank?
A 5-gallon tank can house a small pair, but larger tanks (10–20 gallons) are better.

Q10. Are Moscow Purple Guppies expensive?
Yes, they can cost $8–20 per fish, depending on quality and availability.