The Leopard Tuxedo Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is one of the most eye-catching guppy varieties, loved by aquarists for its mix of bold spots and sharp tuxedo markings. Its leopard-like pattern of dark spots spreads across the body and fins, while the tuxedo pattern gives the back half of the fish a darker shade, creating a striking contrast.
Leopard Tuxedo Guppies come in a wide range of colors — from vibrant yellow and orange to fiery reds, blues, and blacks. Under good aquarium lighting, their unique combination of patterns and colors makes them stand out in any freshwater setup.
The leopard pattern consists of dark spots or patches resembling those of a leopard spread across the body and fins. The “tuxedo” pattern typically means the guppy has a darker rear half of the body, creating a sharp contrast with the front half of the body.
Leopard Tuxedo Guppies are peaceful and social. They are active swimmers and enjoy exploring their environment.
Overview
Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata
Common Name: Leopard Tuxedo Guppy
Family: Poeciliidae
Origin: Selectively bred from wild guppies in South America
Lifespan: 2–3 years
Adult Size: Males up to 1.5 in (3.8 cm), females up to 2.5 in (6.3 cm)
Temperament: Peaceful and social
Difficulty Level: Beginner-friendly
Price: $8–$15 per pair (varies by size, quality, and coloration)
Diet & Feeding
To maintain their bright colors and good health, Leopard Tuxedo Guppies should be given a balanced diet.
Staple: High-quality guppy flakes or micro pellets.
Protein Foods: Brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, or mosquito larvae.
Vegetables: Spirulina, blanched spinach, or zucchini for digestion and color enhancement.
Feeding: Small meals 2–3 times daily. Avoid overfeeding, as leftover food will harm water quality.
Behavior & Tank Mates
These guppies are peaceful, active, and social. They swim throughout the tank and do best when kept in groups.
Good Tank Mates: Other guppies, mollies, platies, neon tetras, corydoras, and shrimp.
Avoid: Aggressive fish like cichlids or fin-nippers such as tiger barbs.
Breeding Leopard Tuxedo Guppies
Breeding Leopard Tuxedo Guppies
Breeding is simple, which makes them popular for beginners.
Type: Livebearers — females give birth to free-swimming fry.
Gestation: About 28 days.
Fry Count: 20–40 per cycle.
Setup: A breeding box or dense plants like java moss help protect fry from adult fish.
Fry Food: Crushed flakes, baby brine shrimp, or fry-specific food.
Health & Care
Though hardy, Leopard Tuxedo Guppies can develop common freshwater fish issues:
Ich (White Spot) – tiny white dots on the body/fins.
Fin Rot – frayed or discolored fins.
Velvet Disease – gold or rust-colored dust on the skin.
Most problems can be prevented with clean water, regular water changes, and a balanced diet.
Female Leopard Tuxedo Guppy:
Female Leopard Tuxedo Guppies may not be as flashy as the males, but they still show beautiful spotted patterns and tuxedo shading.
Females grow larger and rounder, especially when pregnant, and carry a dark gravid spot near the rear vent. Like males, they are peaceful and active, making them perfect companions in community tanks.
Conclusion
The Leopard Tuxedo Guppy is a colorful, beginner-friendly fish that combines beauty with ease of care. Its leopard-like spots, tuxedo contrast, and lively personality make it a wonderful addition to any freshwater aquarium. Whether you’re just starting out or already experienced, these guppies are a joy to keep and breed.
Would you like to see All 15+ Tuxedo Guppy Varieties in Our Master Guide.