Guppy Black Moscow: A Stunning Jet-Black Beauty

Introduction

The Black Moscow Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is a striking freshwater fish known for its deep, velvety black coloration that extends from head to tail. This unique guppy variety is highly sought after by hobbyists due to its graceful appearance, hardy nature, and ease of care.

Characteristics

• Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata
• Common Name: Black Moscow Guppy
• Family: Poeciliidae
• Size: 2–2.5 inches (5–6.5 cm)
• Lifespan: 2–3 years
• Behavior: Peaceful, social, active swimmer
• Care Level: Easy (great for beginners)

Origin and Distribution

The Black Moscow Guppy is a selectively bred strain of the common guppy (Poecilia reticulata), originally found in South America, specifically in slow-moving rivers, streams, and ponds. Through careful breeding, this variety has been developed for its unique solid black coloration and long flowing fins.

Colors and Markings

The Black Moscow Guppy is characterized by its deep black, almost metallic sheen, covering its entire body and fins. This color intensifies with age and proper diet. Males typically exhibit a more intense black color with longer flowing tails, while females may have a slightly lighter shade and rounder body.

💡 Tip: Good lighting and a dark substrate can enhance their black coloration even more!

Tankmates

Black Moscow Guppies are peaceful, social fish, best kept in groups of at least 3–5 individuals. Suitable tankmates include:

✅ Other Guppies (same or different strains)
✅ Mollies, Platies, Swordtails
✅ Small Tetras (Neon, Cardinal, Ember, Rummy Nose)
✅ Rasboras (Chili Rasbora, Harlequin Rasbora)
✅ Corydoras Catfish
✅ Snails and Shrimp (Amano, Cherry Shrimp, Nerite Snails)

🚫 Avoid fin-nippers like Tiger Barbs or Serpae Tetras, and large predatory fish like Cichlids.

Care Requirements

To maintain a healthy environment for Black Moscow Guppies, ensure:

• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (larger for breeding groups).
• Water Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F).
• pH Level: 6.8–7.8 (slightly alkaline preferred).
• Water Hardness: 8–12 dGH (moderate hardness).
• Filtration: Sponge or gentle filtration to prevent fin damage.
• Aquarium Setup:
  • Live plants (Java Moss, Anubias, Hornwort) for cover.
  • Dark substrate to enhance black coloration.
  • Moderate lighting to prevent stress.

🚨 Tip: Regular weekly water changes (25%) help maintain water quality and prevent diseases.

Diet and Feeding

Black Moscow Guppies are omnivores, requiring a diverse diet for optimal coloration and health:

• High-quality flakes or micro-pellets (protein-rich).
• Live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms).
• Vegetable-based foods (spirulina flakes, blanched spinach, algae wafers).

Feed small portions twice daily to prevent overfeeding and water pollution.

Gender Differences

• Males are smaller, slimmer, with longer flowing fins and deeper black coloration.
• Females are larger, rounder, and may have a lighter belly area.
• Males have a gonopodium, a modified anal fin used for reproduction.

Breeding

Black Moscow Guppies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to fully developed fry instead of laying eggs.

Breeding Process

1. Gestation Period: 3–4 weeks after mating.
2. Number of Fry: 20–50 fry per batch.
3. Hiding Spots for Fry: Provide floating plants (like Water Lettuce) or breeding boxes to prevent predation.
4. Feeding Fry: Infusoria, crushed flakes, baby brine shrimp for rapid growth.

🚸 Tip: Separating the fry from adult fish increases survival rates.

Additional Resources

For more guppy care tips, check out:

• How to Enhance Guppy Colors Naturally
• Best Tankmates for Guppies
• Breeding Guppies: A Complete Guide

Conclusion

The Black Moscow Guppy is a rare, elegant, and beginner-friendly fish that adds a dramatic aesthetic to any aquarium. With proper care, these guppies will thrive, breed easily, and showcase their mesmerizing jet-black beauty in a well-maintained tank.

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