Live-bearing
Live-bearing Ornamental Fish for the Aquarium
Live-bearing ornamental fish are among the best-known and most popular aquarium fish. This group includes guppies, platies, mollies, and swordtails, among others. They originate mainly from Central and South America and are particularly known for being easy to care for and highly adaptable.
The name of this group of fish already describes one of their most interesting characteristics: the females give birth to fully developed young. As a result, these species can often be bred in the aquarium without any problems.
Typical Characteristics of Livebearing Fish
Many livebearing aquarium fish are characterized by their vibrant colors, active behavior, and hardy nature. Guppies and platies, in particular, are very popular because of their variety of colors and their ease of care.
- give birth to live young
- mostly hardy and adaptable species
- wide variety of colors and shapes
- well-suited for beginners
Keeping Them in an Aquarium
Most livebearing ornamental fish are relatively easy to care for and are well-suited for community aquariums. A varied setup with plants, driftwood, and ample swimming space provides a natural environment.
Many species thrive at temperatures between about 23 and 26 °C. Many species prefer slightly harder water that is neutral to slightly alkaline.
Since these fish often reproduce quickly, the aquarium should be sufficiently structured. Plants and hiding spots offer protection to juvenile fish and help maintain a stable balance in the aquarium.
Compatibility with Other Aquarium Inhabitants
Livebearers are generally peaceful and can be successfully combined with many other aquarium inhabitants.
- Suitable with many peaceful schooling fish
- Can be combined well with armored catfish and other bottom-dwelling fish
- usually compatible with snails
Keeping them with shrimp can work, though shrimp fry may be eaten. Very small shrimp species should therefore only be kept together with caution.
Live-bearing species should not be kept with aggressive or very large fish.
Popular livebearing ornamental fish
Among the best-known and most popular species in the aquarium hobby are:
- Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)
- Platy (Xiphophorus maculatus)
- Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii)
- Molly (Poecilia sphenops)
- Endler's guppy (Poecilia wingei)
Depending on the species, size, color variations, and care requirements differ. What they all have in common, however, is that they are easy to care for and have an interesting reproductive behavior.
Buying Livebearing Fish—What to Look For
When purchasing live-bearing ornamental fish, it’s advisable to maintain a balanced sex ratio. A ratio of one male to several females is often recommended to prevent stress in individual fish.
In our selection, you’ll find a variety of popular livebearing species for different aquarium sizes—from small beginner aquariums to large community tanks.