Different Kinds Of Guppy Fish – A Complete Guide To Choosing The Best One

Have you ever walked into a local fish store and felt completely overwhelmed by the shimmering wall of neon colors in the guppy tanks?
We all know that guppies are the quintessential choice for beginners and pros alike because of their hardiness and vibrant personalities.

In this guide, I’m going to walk you through the incredible world of different kinds of guppy fish so you can find the perfect match for your aquarium.
Whether you are looking for long, flowing fins or striking metallic scales, there is a variety out there for every taste.

By the end of this article, you’ll be able to identify dozens of strains and understand the unique care requirements for these aquatic gems.
We will explore everything from exotic tail shapes to the mesmerizing patterns that make these “million fish” so special.

An Overview of the Different Kinds of Guppy Fish

Before we dive into the specific names and labels, it is important to understand how these fish are actually classified.
The hobby has evolved significantly since the first wild guppies were discovered in South America.

Today, breeders categorize different kinds of guppy fish based on three primary characteristics: tail shape, body color, and scale pattern.
Mixing and matching these traits is what leads to the thousands of unique combinations we see today.

Don’t worry if it seems complicated at first! Most of these names are very descriptive.
For example, a “Blue Snakeskin Delta Tail” tells you exactly what the fish looks like just by its name.

The Three Pillars of Guppy Identification

When you are trying to identify a guppy, first look at the tail shape. This is usually the most distinctive feature.
Next, observe the body pattern, which might look like spots, stripes, or solid blocks of color.

Finally, look at the coloration of both the body and the fins.
Sometimes the body is one color while the fins are another, creating a beautiful contrast known as a “bicolor” or “tuxedo” look.

In my experience, understanding these three pillars makes it much easier to communicate with other hobbyists.
It also helps you when you are searching for a specific strain to add to your collection.

Categorizing Guppies by Tail Shape

The tail, or caudal fin, is the crowning glory of the fancy guppy.
Breeders have spent decades refining these shapes to create architectural marvels that flow through the water.

There are over a dozen recognized tail shapes in the international breeding standards.
Let’s look at the most popular ones you are likely to encounter in the hobby today.

The Fan Tail and Delta Tail

The Fantail is perhaps the most common variety you will find in pet stores.
It features a wide, triangular tail that spreads out symmetrically from the body.

The Delta Tail (or Triangle Tail) is a more refined version of the Fantail.
An ideal Delta tail should have straight edges that form a perfect 60-degree angle when fully flared.

These varieties are stunning, but they do require a bit of extra care.
Because their fins are so large, they can be easily nipped by aggressive tank mates or damaged by sharp decorations.

Swordtail Guppies

Swordtail guppies are unique because their tail fin extends into long, pointed “swords.”
There are three main variations: the Single Sword (top or bottom), the Double Sword, and the Lyretail.

The Double Sword features extensions on both the top and bottom of the tail.
The Lyretail looks similar but usually has a shorter central fin area, making it look like a classic harp or lyre.

I find these varieties to be much faster swimmers than their heavy-finned cousins.
If you have a high-flow aquarium, swordtails are often a better choice as they aren’t weighed down by massive finnage.

The Veiltail and Flag Tail

The Veiltail is known for its long, flowing fin that is shaped like an isosceles triangle.
Unlike the Delta, the edges of a Veiltail are often more rounded and draped, giving it an elegant, ghostly appearance.

The Flag Tail is similar but more rectangular in shape.
When the fish swims, the tail flutters behind it like a flag waving in the breeze.

Pro tip: When keeping these long-finned varieties, ensure your filter intake is covered with a sponge.
This prevents their delicate fins from being sucked in and torn by the motor.

Common Body Patterns and Scale Textures

Once you’ve identified the tail, the next step in identifying different kinds of guppy fish is looking at the pattern.
Patterns can appear on the body, the fins, or both.

Some patterns are so distinct that they have become their own established “strains” in the aquarium world.
Let’s break down the most iconic patterns you should know.

Snakeskin and Cobra Patterns

The Snakeskin pattern is characterized by a fine, lace-like chain link pattern across the body.
It often has a shimmering, iridescent quality that catches the light beautifully.

The Cobra pattern is very similar but usually features larger, more distinct rosettes or vertical bars.
Often, Cobra guppies will also have “spots” on their tails that resemble the markings of a snake.

In my tanks, I’ve found that Snakeskins tend to be very hardy.
Their complex genetics often result in robust fish that are a joy to watch during feeding time.

The Sophisticated Tuxedo Guppy

The Tuxedo Guppy is a fan favorite because of its clean, dual-toned look.
The back half of the fish’s body is a solid, dark color (usually black or dark blue), while the front half and fins are a different color.

This creates the illusion that the fish is wearing a formal suit.
Common combinations include the Red Tuxedo and the Neon Blue Tuxedo.

These fish look incredible in a planted tank.
The dark “suit” provides a sharp contrast against bright green plants like Java Fern or Anubias.

Grass and Leopard Patterns

Grass Guppies feature thousands of tiny, fine dots on their tail and dorsal fins.
It looks almost like a dusting of fine pepper or the texture of a grass field.

Leopard Guppies have much larger, distinct spots that look like the coat of a wild cat.
These spots are usually black or dark brown set against a yellow or orange background.

These patterns are highly sought after by breeders.
Maintaining the “purity” of the spots requires careful selective breeding and high-quality nutrition.

Vivid Color Strains: Choosing Your Palette

If patterns aren’t your thing, you might prefer the striking beauty of solid-colored guppies.
Some of the most breathtaking different kinds of guppy fish are those that sport a single, intense hue.

From deep “Black Moscow” to “Full Gold,” these fish act as living jewels in your aquarium.
Let’s look at some of the most popular color-based strains.

The Mysterious Moscow Guppy

Moscow guppies are unique because they are usually a solid color across their entire body and fins.
The most famous is the Black Moscow, which is a deep, velvety charcoal color.

There are also Blue Moscows and Green Moscows, which have a metallic, iridescent sheen.
They often appear to change color depending on the angle of the light and the mood of the fish.

One thing to note: Moscows are often slightly larger than other fancy guppies.
They have a thick, muscular body that makes them stand out even without a complex pattern.

Albino and Koi Varieties

Albino Guppies lack melanin, giving them white or pinkish bodies and striking red eyes.
Because they lack dark pigments, their other colors (like red or yellow) appear much more pastel and soft.

Koi Guppies are bred to mimic the look of traditional Japanese Koi ponds.
They usually have a white body with a bright red head and tail, often referred to as “Red Cap” Koi guppies.

Keep in mind that Albino varieties can be slightly more sensitive to bright light.
Providing some floating plants like Amazon Frogbit can help them feel more secure and comfortable.

Rare and Specialty Guppy Varieties

As you move from a beginner to an intermediate keeper, you might start looking for something truly unique.
The world of specialty guppies is where things get really interesting!

These varieties often feature genetic mutations that have been stabilized by expert breeders over many years.
They might be harder to find, but they are definitely worth the search.

Dumbo Ear (Big Ear) Guppies

The Dumbo Ear Guppy is a relatively recent sensation in the hobby.
These fish have oversized pectoral fins (the fins on the sides of their body) that look like elephant ears.

When they swim, these “ears” flap vigorously, making them look like they are flying through the water.
They come in many colors, but the “Dumbo Red Mosaic” is particularly stunning.

Because their pectoral fins are so large, they can sometimes struggle in high-flow environments.
I recommend using a sponge filter or a baffled power filter to keep the current gentle.

The Multi-Colored Medusa and Metal Head

The Medusa Guppy is a complex strain that often combines snakeskin patterns with multiple colors like orange, silver, and blue.
Their tails are often “filigreed,” meaning they have a very delicate, lace-like edge.

Metal Head Guppies have a distinct metallic sheen specifically on the head and “shoulders” of the fish.
This metallic area is usually a dark blue or purple, contrasting with a lighter body color.

These specialty fish are often more expensive and are best purchased from reputable breeders.
Buying directly from a breeder ensures you are getting a fish with strong genetics and a clear lineage.

Practical Care Tips for Your Fancy Guppies

No matter which of the different kinds of guppy fish you choose, they all share some basic care requirements.
However, the “fancier” the fish, the more attention you need to pay to their environment.

Guppies are tropical fish, meaning they need warm, stable water to thrive.
They are also “hard water” fish, which is a common mistake many beginners make when using RO (Reverse Osmosis) water.

Water Parameters and Tank Setup

Guppies prefer a temperature between 72°F and 82°F (22°C – 28°C).
While they are adaptable, a steady 76°F is often the “sweet spot” for health and longevity.

They thrive in water with a pH between 6.8 and 7.8.
More importantly, they need minerals like calcium and magnesium in the water (General Hardness or GH).

If your water is too soft, their immune systems can weaken.
You can easily fix this by adding crushed coral to your filter or using a mineral remineralizer.

Diet and Nutrition for Vibrant Colors

To keep those snakeskin patterns and neon colors looking their best, diet is key.
Don’t just rely on cheap flakes!

I recommend a varied diet consisting of high-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and frozen foods.
Frozen brine shrimp and bloodworms are like “superfoods” for guppies.

Vegetable matter is also important. Guppies love to peck at algae wafers or blanched zucchini.
A balanced diet ensures they have the energy to grow those massive, beautiful tails.

Breeding Different Kinds of Guppy Fish

One of the most rewarding parts of this hobby is seeing new life in your tank.
Guppies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to free-swimming fry instead of laying eggs.

If you want to maintain a specific look, you’ll need to practice selective breeding.
This involves choosing the “best” male and female based on the traits you want to keep.

Understanding Genetics for Beginners

You don’t need a degree in biology to breed beautiful fish!
Just remember that the male usually passes down the tail shape and color, while the female carries the genetic “size” and “sturdiness.”

If you keep different kinds of guppy fish in the same tank, they will cross-breed.
This often results in “mutt guppies,” which are still beautiful but won’t have the standardized look of their parents.

To keep a strain “pure,” you should keep one variety per tank.
This allows you to control the lineage and potentially create your own unique variety over time!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can different kinds of guppy fish live together?

Absolutely! Most guppies are very social and peaceful.
The only downside to mixing them is that their offspring will be mixed “mutts” rather than purebred strains.

Why is my guppy’s tail splitting?

Tail splitting can be caused by high water flow, sharp decor, or “fin rot” (a bacterial infection).
Check your water quality first, as clean water is the best medicine for repairing torn fins.

How long do fancy guppies live?

On average, a healthy guppy lives for 2 to 3 years.
Providing high-quality food and keeping the water clean can help them reach the upper end of that lifespan.

Are male or female guppies more colorful?

In almost every variety, the males are the ones with the vibrant colors and long fins.
Females are usually larger and have more muted colors, though some modern strains now feature colorful female tails!

What is the rarest kind of guppy?

Rarity often changes based on trends, but currently, high-quality “Purple Moscow” or “Albino Full Platinum” guppies are considered quite rare and valuable.

Conclusion

Exploring the different kinds of guppy fish is a journey that never truly ends.
From the classic elegance of the Delta Tail to the whimsical charm of the Dumbo Ear, there is always something new to discover.

Remember that whether you choose a common Fantail or a rare specialty strain, the key to success is consistency.
Keep your water stable, feed a varied diet, and observe your fish daily to ensure they are happy and healthy.

Don’t be afraid to start with a few “pet grade” guppies and work your way up to show-quality strains.
The most important thing is that you enjoy the life and color they bring to your home. Happy fish keeping!