The Leopard Tuxedo Guppy, a family of Poecilia reticulat, is an eye-catching variety known for its unique patterning reminiscent of a leopard’s spots combined with the classic tuxedo-like markings found on their body. Leopard Tuxedo Guppies are characterized by their vibrant and diverse colors. They often display a mix of bright colors, such as yellow, orange, red, blue, and black.
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 native to South America
Lifespan: 2-3 years
Adult Size: Males: up to 1.5 inches (3.8 cm), Females: up to 2.5 inches (6.3 cm)
Temperament: Peaceful and social
Difficulty Level: Beginner-friendly
The Leopard Tuxedo Guppies’ price is between $8 to $15. The price can vary depending on the source, the size of the fish, the quality of the coloration and pattern, and the region where they are being sold.
Tank Requirements
Leopard Tuxedo Guppies are hardy but thrive best in a well-maintained aquarium with stable water conditions.
Tank Size: Minimum of 10 gallons for a small group (5-6 guppies). A larger tank is recommended for optimal health and breeding.
Water Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
pH Level: 6.8-7.8
Water Hardness: 8-12 dGH
Filtration: A sponge filter or gentle hang-on-back filter to keep water clean without creating excessive currents.
Substrate & Decorations: Fine gravel or sand with live plants such as Java Moss, Anubias, and Water Wisteria to provide hiding spots and a natural environment.
Diet & Feeding
Leopard Tuxedo Guppies require a balanced and varied diet to maintain their vibrant colors and health:
Staple Foods: High-quality guppy flakes or micro pellets.
Live/Frozen Foods: Brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and mosquito larvae for extra protein.
Vegetables: Blanched spinach, zucchini, or spirulina-based food to support digestion.
Feeding Schedule: Feed small portions 2-3 times per day to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.
Tank Mates
These guppies are peaceful and can coexist with other non-aggressive fish species. Suitable tank mates include:
Other guppies
Mollies
Platies
Neon Tetras
Corydoras Catfish
Shrimp (such as Amano or Cherry Shrimp) Avoid housing them with aggressive species like cichlids or fin-nipping fish such as tiger barbs.
Breeding Leopard Tuxedo Guppies
Breeding guppies is easy and rewarding, making them a great choice for beginner breeders.
Reproduction: Guppies are live bearers, meaning they give birth to free-swimming fry rather than laying eggs.
Gestation Period: About 28 days.
Breeding Tank Setup: A separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or a breeder box can help protect fry from being eaten by adults.
Fry Care: Newly hatched fry should be fed crushed flakes, baby brine shrimp, or specialized fry food to support their growth.
Common Health Issues & Prevention
Leopard Tuxedo Guppies are generally hardy but can be susceptible to common freshwater fish diseases:
Ich (White Spot Disease): Small white spots on the body and fins. Treat with aquarium salt and raised temperature.
Fin Rot: Fins appear frayed or discolored. Improve water quality and use antibacterial treatments.
Velvet Disease: Gold or rust-colored dust-like spots on the body. Treat with copper-based medications.
Prevention Tips: Regular water changes, a balanced diet, and avoiding overcrowding help prevent most health issues.
Female Leopard Tuxedo Guppy:
The Female Leopard Tuxedo Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is a stunning variation of the Leopard Tuxedo Guppy, showcasing a more subtle yet equally fascinating appearance. While female guppies are generally less colorful than their male counterparts, the Leopard Tuxedo variety stands out with its unique pattern and graceful presence in an aquarium.
Physical Appearance
The Female Leopard Tuxedo Guppy is known for its subtle yet captivating patterns:
Body Color: Typically a soft yellow, golden, or light orange hue with scattered black leopard-like spots.
Tuxedo Pattern: The lower half of the body features a dark, smoky coloration, forming the classic tuxedo look, though less intense than in males.
Fins: The tail fin may display delicate speckling or faint patterns, making each fish unique.
Sexual Dimorphism: Females are larger and rounder, especially when carrying fry, with a less vivid but still attractive coloration compared to males
Conclusion
The Leopard Tuxedo Guppy is a visually striking and easy-to-care-for fish that makes a great addition to any freshwater aquarium. Its beautiful pattern, peaceful temperament, and simple breeding process make it ideal for both beginners and experienced aquarists.