Guppy Endler Black Silverado: A Guide for Aquarium Enthusiasts

The Guppy Endler Black Silverado is a stunning and unique livebearer that combines the hardy nature of Endler’s Livebearers (Poecilia wingei) with the striking appearance of a black and silver guppy. This fish is highly sought after for its metallic silver body with deep black markings, making it a standout in any aquarium.

Characteristics

• Scientific Name: Poecilia wingei (Endler’s Livebearer)
• Common Name: Guppy Endler Black Silverado
• Family: Poeciliidae
• Natural Habitat: Native to Venezuela, but the Black Silverado variety is a selectively bred strain.
• Behavior: Peaceful, active, and social; enjoys swimming in groups.
• Tank Preferences: Prefers well-planted tanks with open swimming areas.
• Ideal Water Parameters:
  • pH: 6.8 – 7.8
  • Hardness: Moderate to hard (10-20 dGH)
  • Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
• Care Level: Easy

Origin and Distribution

The Guppy Endler Black Silverado is a hybrid strain derived from Endler’s Livebearers and selectively bred for its deep black body and metallic silver highlights. While Endlers originate from freshwater lagoons in Venezuela, this hybrid is exclusively bred in captivity.

Colors and Markings

The Black Silverado Guppy is known for its deep, velvety black body with shimmering silver or platinum-like accents.

• Males have an intense black base color with a reflective silver sheen on their head and upper body.
• Females are less colorful but may have subtle silver hints and a larger body size.

Tankmates

• Best Companions:
  • Other peaceful nano fish such as Neon Tetras, Rasboras, and Corydoras.
  • Other Endler’s Livebearers or peaceful guppy strains.
  • Shrimp and snails for a well-balanced ecosystem.
• Avoid:
  • Aggressive or fin-nipping fish like Tiger Barbs.
  • Large cichlids that may prey on smaller guppies.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons for a small group.
• Filtration: Gentle filtration (sponge or HOB filters) preferred to avoid strong currents.
• Water Changes: 20-30% weekly to maintain water clarity.
• Lighting: Moderate; enhances natural colors and encourages plant growth.
• Substrate & Plants:
  • Fine gravel or sand for a natural look.
  • Live plants such as Java Moss, Anubias, and Water Sprite for hiding spots and fry protection.

Diet and Feeding

• Diet Type: Omnivore
• Food Recommendations:
  • High-quality flake or pellet food for guppies.
  • Live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms).
  • Vegetable matter (spirulina flakes, blanched zucchini).
• Feeding Frequency: Twice a day in small portions.

Gender Differences

• Males: Smaller, more vibrant black and silver coloration, with a gonopodium (modified anal fin for reproduction).
• Females: Larger, less intense coloration, with a rounded belly and visible gravid spot when pregnant.

Breeding

• Difficulty: Easy (livebearer species)
• Breeding Requirements:
  • Keep a ratio of 1 male to 2-3 females to reduce stress.
  • Provide dense vegetation or breeding boxes for fry protection.
• Gestation Period: About 21-30 days, with females giving birth to live fry.
• Fry Care:
  • Separate fry from adults if necessary.
  • Feed fry powdered fish food, baby brine shrimp, or infusoria.

Additional Resources

If you love Guppy Endler Black Silverado, you may also enjoy:

• Endler’s Livebearer – A smaller, wild-type cousin of guppies with vibrant colors.
• Dumbo Ear Guppy – Known for its large, flowing pectoral fins.
• Metallic Platinum Guppy – Features an all-over silver sheen.

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