Albino Full Red Guppy (AFR): A Guide for Aquarium Enthusiasts

The Albino Full Red Guppy (AFR) is one of the most striking and sought-after guppy strains. With its vivid red coloration covering its entire body, combined with its albino traits, this guppy is a favorite among breeders and hobbyists. Known for its active nature and ease of care, the AFR is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists.

Characteristics

• Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata
• Common Name: Albino Full Red Guppy (AFR)
• Family: Poeciliidae
• Natural Habitat: Originally derived from wild guppies in South America, but AFR guppies are a selectively bred variety.
• Behavior: Peaceful, active, and social; enjoys swimming in groups.
• Tank Preferences: Best kept in a well-planted aquarium with open swimming areas.
• Ideal Water Parameters:
  • pH: 6.8 – 7.5
  • Hardness: Soft to moderate (6-12 dGH)
  • Temperature: 24-28°C (75-82°F)
• Care Level: Easy

Origin and Distribution

The Albino Full Red Guppy is a selectively bred strain developed by guppy breeders to achieve its signature deep red coloration and albino characteristics. While guppies originate from freshwater habitats in South America, AFR guppies are now bred worldwide in controlled environments.

Colors and Markings

AFR guppies display an intense, solid red color throughout their body, tail, and fins, with their albino genetics giving them red or pinkish eyes. Males often exhibit brighter and more uniform coloration, while females may have a slightly paler red tone.

Tankmates

• Best Companions:
  • Peaceful community fish like neon tetras, ember tetras, Corydoras, and mollies.
  • Other guppy strains (to maintain hybrid variations).
  • Shrimp and snails for a balanced tank ecosystem.
• Avoid:
  • Fin-nipping fish like tiger barbs.
  • Aggressive cichlids that may prey on guppies.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons for a small colony.
• Filtration: Sponge filters or hang-on-back filters with gentle flow.
• Water Changes: 20-30% weekly to maintain water quality.
• Lighting: Moderate; too much lighting may cause algae growth.
• Substrate & Plants:
  • Fine gravel or sand substrate.
  • Live plants like Java moss, Anubias, and Amazon sword for hiding spots.

Diet and Feeding

• Diet Type: Omnivore
• Food Recommendations:
  • High-quality guppy pellets and flakes
  • Live or frozen foods (daphnia, bloodworms, brine shrimp)
  • Vegetables like blanched spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients
• Feeding Frequency: Twice a day in small portions.

Gender Differences

• Males: Smaller, brighter red, and have a gonopodium (modified anal fin for reproduction).
• Females: Larger, slightly paler red, and have a rounded gravid spot near the abdomen.

Breeding

• Difficulty: Easy (livebearer species)
• Breeding Requirements:
  • Keep a ratio of 1 male to 2-3 females to reduce stress.
  • Provide plenty of hiding spots for fry (baby guppies).
• Gestation Period: About 21-30 days; females give birth to live fry.
• Fry Care:
  • Separate fry from adults to prevent predation.
  • Feed powdered fish food, baby brine shrimp, or infusoria.

Additional Resources

For more guppy care guides, explore other strains like Koi Guppy, Blue Moscow Guppy, and Dumbo Ear Guppy to diversify your aquarium!

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