Guppy PRTD: A Unique and Colorful Strain for Your Aquarium

Characteristics

The Guppy PRTD is a selectively bred guppy strain, known for its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and elegant fins. Like other guppies (Poecilia reticulata), this strain is hardy, adaptable, and easy to breed, making it a favorite among both beginner and experienced aquarists.

• Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata (PRTD strain)
• Natural Habitat: Originally from South America, now selectively bred worldwide
• Behavior: Active, peaceful, and highly social
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons for a small group
• Ideal Water Parameters:
  • pH: 6.8 – 7.8
  • Hardness: 8 – 12 dGH
  • Temperature: 72 – 82°F (22 – 28°C)
• Care Level: Easy

Origin and Distribution

The Guppy PRTD does not exist in the wild, as it is a selectively bred strain of the common guppy. However, its ancestors come from freshwater streams, ponds, and slow-moving rivers in South America, particularly in Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana. Due to selective breeding, this strain exhibits unique coloration and patterns not found in wild guppies.

Colors and Markings

The Guppy PRTD is known for its striking patterns and bold coloration, which may include:

• Base Colors: Blue, red, orange, or metallic hues
• Pattern Types: Mosaic, lace, or leopard-like markings on fins and body
• Fin Shapes: Broad, flowing caudal (tail) fins and elongated dorsal fins

The PRTD strain stands out due to its highly contrasted body markings, giving it a premium appearance compared to standard guppies.

Tankmates

Guppies are peaceful and social, making them ideal for community tanks with other non-aggressive fish. Suitable tankmates include:

• Small Tetras (Neon Tetra, Cardinal Tetra, Ember Tetra)
• Rasboras (Harlequin Rasbora, Chili Rasbora)
• Corydoras Catfish
• Other Livebearers (Mollies, Platies, Swordtails)
• Snails and Shrimp (Nerite Snails, Amano Shrimp)

Avoid keeping them with fin-nipping fish like Tiger Barbs or large aggressive species like cichlids.

Care Requirements

The Guppy PRTD is easy to care for, but maintaining optimal water conditions ensures their health and longevity.

• Filtration: A gentle sponge filter or HOB filter works best.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting enhances their colors.
• Substrate: Fine gravel or sand works well.
• Aquascaping: Provide live plants (Java Fern, Hornwort, Water Wisteria), driftwood, and floating plants for cover and breeding.

Perform weekly 20-30% water changes to maintain water quality.

Diet and Feeding

The Guppy PRTD is an omnivore, requiring a varied diet to maintain its vibrant colors and health. Offer:

• Staple Foods: High-quality guppy flakes or micro pellets
• Live/Frozen Foods: Daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms
• Vegetable Matter: Blanched zucchini, spinach, spirulina flakes

Feed small portions 2-3 times daily, ensuring they consume all food within a few minutes.

Gender Differences

Males and females show clear distinctions:

• Males: Smaller, more colorful, with larger, more elaborate fins
• Females: Larger, duller coloration, with a visible gravid spot (dark patch near the abdomen)

Breeding

Like all guppies, the PRTD strain is livebearing, meaning females give birth to fully developed fry rather than laying eggs.

Breeding Tips:

1. Use a breeding tank (5-10 gallons) with fine-leaved plants or breeding nets to protect fry.
2. Gestation lasts around 28 days, and females can give birth to 20-50 fry per batch.
3. Separate fry from adults to prevent predation.
4. Feed fry infusoria or crushed flakes until they are large enough for standard guppy food.

With the right conditions, Guppy PRTD can breed continuously, making them ideal for breeders or hobbyists wanting a self-sustaining colony.

Additional Resources

For more guppy care tips, check out:

• Beginner’s Guide to Guppy Keeping
• How to Enhance Guppy Colors Naturally
• Breeding Fancy Guppies: Best Practices

The Guppy PRTD is an exceptional strain, perfect for aquarists looking for a visually stunning, easy-to-care-for fish. Whether for a display tank or breeding project, this guppy is a valuable addition to any aquarium!