By weeebooo70@gmail.com 
The Neon Blue Guppy is one of the most eye-catching freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby. Known for its shimmering blue scales, playful nature, and adaptability, this guppy variety has become a favorite among both beginners and experienced aquarists. Its metallic-blue body reflects light beautifully, creating a mesmerizing glow in the water — making it a perfect choice for planted aquariums and community tanks.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about Neon Blue Guppy care, from tank setup and feeding to breeding and health tips, so you can keep them thriving for years.
1. Overview of the Neon Blue Guppy
The Neon Blue Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is a selectively bred strain of guppy developed for its striking blue coloration. The color can range from bright sky blue to deep metallic cobalt, with some specimens showing gradient tones across the body and tail. Depending on the strain, their tails may be delta-shaped, round, or lyretail.
Key Characteristics
- Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata
- Family: Poeciliidae
- Origin: Selectively bred from wild guppies (native to South America)
- Lifespan: 2–3 years
- Adult Size: 1.5–2.5 inches
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Care Level: Easy
- Water Type: Freshwater
- Diet: Omnivorous
2. Appearance and Coloration
The Neon Blue Guppy’s appeal lies in its shimmering blue hues. Under proper aquarium lighting, the fish glows, especially when viewed against a dark background or in a planted aquarium.
Some may have solid blue bodies, while others have mosaic or snakeskin patterns in the tail. The males tend to be more vibrant, while females are larger but less intensely colored.
Common Variations:
- Solid Neon Blue
- Blue Mosaic Tail
- Blue Grass Pattern
- Blue with Black Lace Pattern
3. Behavior and Temperament
Neon Blue Guppies are:
- Active swimmers that explore every level of the tank.
- Peaceful and can live well in community setups.
- Social and enjoy the company of their own kind.
- Known for constant movement, adding life and color to aquariums.
Because of their gentle nature, they should not be kept with aggressive species that nip fins, such as tiger barbs or some bettas.
4. Ideal Tank Setup
Even though guppies are hardy, providing the right tank environment ensures better health and vibrant coloration.
Tank Size
- A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended for a small group.
- Larger tanks (20+ gallons) are better for breeding colonies.
Water Parameters
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F (22–28°C) |
| pH Level | 6.8–7.8 |
| Hardness | 8–12 dGH |
| Ammonia/Nitrite | 0 ppm |
| Nitrate | < 20 ppm |
Filtration & Aeration
- Use a gentle filter (sponge filter recommended for fry safety).
- Provide good oxygenation with an air stone or surface agitation.
Lighting
- Moderate to bright lighting enhances their blue coloration.
- LED aquarium lights work best for highlighting metallic shades.
Aquascaping
- Add live plants like Java moss, Anubias, and Water Wisteria for cover.
- Dark substrate makes their colors pop.
- Include hiding spots using rocks or driftwood.
5. Diet and Feeding
Neon Blue Guppies are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet.
Recommended Foods:
- High-quality flakes or pellets for daily nutrition.
- Live foods: brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae.
- Frozen foods: bloodworms, cyclops.
- Vegetables: blanched spinach, cucumber slices.
Feeding Tips:
- Feed small amounts 2–3 times a day.
- Avoid overfeeding to prevent water pollution.
6. Breeding Neon Blue Guppies
One of the most exciting parts of owning guppies is how easily they breed.
Breeding Setup
- Use a separate breeding tank (10–15 gallons).
- Provide dense plants or breeding grass for fry hiding spots.
Breeding Process
- Select a healthy male and 2–3 females.
- Males display courtship by spreading their fins and swimming around females.
- Gestation lasts 21–30 days.
- A single female can give birth to 20–50 fry at a time.
Fry Care
- Separate fry from adults to avoid predation.
- Feed fry powdered fry food, crushed flakes, or baby brine shrimp.
- Keep the water clean with gentle filtration.
7. Common Diseases and Prevention
Although hardy, Neon Blue Guppies can be prone to some common freshwater diseases.
Common Health Issues:
- Ich (White Spot Disease)
- Fin Rot
- Velvet Disease
- Swim Bladder Disorder
Prevention Tips:
- Maintain stable water parameters.
- Quarantine new fish before adding them to the main tank.
- Avoid overfeeding.
- Perform regular water changes (25–30% weekly).
8. Tank Mates for Neon Blue Guppies
They do best with peaceful community fish such as:
- Mollies
- Platies
- Corydoras catfish
- Neon tetras
- Cherry shrimp
- Otocinclus catfish
Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
9. Pros and Cons of Keeping Neon Blue Guppies
Pros:
- Stunning, vibrant coloration.
- Easy to breed.
- Hardy and adaptable.
- Peaceful temperament.
- Active and entertaining.
Cons:
- Short lifespan (2–3 years).
- Can overpopulate quickly.
- Males can harass females if not balanced in numbers.
10. Tips for Enhancing Their Blue Color
- Provide high-quality diet rich in carotenoids and spirulina.
- Use dark substrates and backgrounds.
- Keep stress levels low with peaceful tank mates.
- Maintain clean, stable water conditions.
- Ensure adequate lighting.
11. Buying Neon Blue Guppies
When purchasing:
- Choose fish with bright colors and active swimming behavior.
- Avoid fish with clamped fins, spots, or lethargy.
- Buy from reputable breeders or stores.
Price Range: $2 to $5 per fish, depending on quality and strain.
Conclusion
The Neon Blue Guppy is a perfect choice for anyone wanting a colorful, active, and low-maintenance fish. Whether you are a beginner setting up your first aquarium or an experienced aquarist looking for a vibrant addition, these guppies will not disappoint. With proper care, good nutrition, and a suitable environment, they can thrive and display their full beauty.
FAQs About Neon Blue Guppies
Q1: How long do Neon Blue Guppies live?
A: They typically live 2–3 years, but with excellent care, some may reach 4 years.
Q2: Can I keep Neon Blue Guppies with bettas?
A: It depends on the betta’s temperament. Some bettas may attack guppies, especially males with long fins.
Q3: How many Neon Blue Guppies should I keep together?
A: Keep them in groups of at least 6 or more for social comfort.
Q4: Do Neon Blue Guppies need a heater?
A: Yes, they thrive in warm water between 72–82°F, so a heater is recommended.
Q5: Can I breed Neon Blue Guppies with other guppy strains?
A: Yes, but the offspring may not retain pure neon blue coloration.