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Scientific name: Poecilia sp. “Endler’s”
Common names: Endler’s Livebearer, Endler’s Guppy, Endler’s Poecilia
Maximum size: Males may reach .75”, females 1.4”
Minimum tank size: Five gallons
Behavior: Suitable for communities but should never be mixed with guppies for fear of hybridization; these fish are too rare to risk those crosses. They are as prolific as guppies if not more so and thus require a bit of planning to allow space for fry.
p.H: As hardy and adaptable as guppies, they prefer a neutral pH but will do fine in any reasonable level.
Tempature: 70-78; not critical.
Endler’s Livebearers are very closely related to the common guppy. Found in only a few sites in Mexico and most likely endangered in the wild, strains of this beautiful toothcarp have found homes and dedicated breeders all over the US and much of the world. Although not popular pet store fish, males are sometimes available. For pairs, the only source is often online auctions and breeders, or local enthusiasts. Within a few months a female Endler may produce 20 or 30 fry; older females may drop many more than that. The larger, gray females are not as striking as a nice female fancy guppy, but they’re geese that lay golden eggs: male Endler fry. When one has seen a male Endler’s, it becomes instantly clear why they enjoy such underground popularity. Their strips of vivid green, orange, periwinkle, and black, on a diminutive body and an expressive livebearer face, are all but irresistible. These fish will fit in some of the smallest of tanks but will happily populate the largest. They’re an ideal candidate for outdoor summer tubs, and will delight children and adults alike.
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