The natural distribution of the Endlers Guppy is much more limited than that of the normal Guppy.  The main wetland area it is found in is threatened by the dumping of rubbish.  There is a very real danger of it becoming extinct in the wild, and some reports suggest it already is.  The Endlers Guppy in its ‘pure’ form is threatened in captivity by the fact it will hybridize with the normal Guppy, producing fertile hybrids that are very attractive.  While there may be nothing intrinsically wrong with this and nice fish can result, I think several captive populations of the pure Endlers Guppy should be maintained.

Comparison with the Guppy, Poecilia reticulata

The Endlers Guppy is very similar to the normal Guppy.   Like the Guppy, it has extremely varied colours, the wild form is very hardy, it is extremely easy to breed, it is peaceful and a good community fish with other small peaceful fish.

There are some differences.  The Endlers Guppy prefers a slightly higher temperature, and a thermostat setting of 27̊ C (80̊ F) is suitable.  The average gestation period of the Endlers Guppy is slightly shorter.  Perhaps 23 days as compared with the Guppy’s average of about 28 days.