Top 10 Livebearing Aquarium Fish You Should Know About - AquariumNexus (2024)

Discover the fascinating world of livebearing aquarium fish!Dive into our comprehensive guide on 10 of the most popular and easy-to-maintain species that will surely breathe life and color into your underwater haven. From vibrant Guppies to the hardy Platy, this article is your ultimate guide to a thriving aquatic community.

Guppy Fish

Guppy fish, or Poecilia reticulata, are undeniably among the most popular and beloved livebearing aquarium fish. With their stunning tails and active swimming, they add an energetic and colorful touch to any aquarium. Guppies are known to be easy to care for, making them ideal for beginners as well.

• Adult Size:0.6 – 2.4 inches (1.5 – 6 cm)
• Minimum Tank Size:5 gallons (19 liters)
• Water Temperature:75 – 82°F (24 – 28°C)
• Temperament:Peaceful and social
• Lifespan:2 – 3 years

Considering their captivating appearance and low-maintenance requirements, Guppy fish are an excellent choice for any aquarium enthusiast.

Molly Fish

Molly fish, scientifically known as Poecilia sphenops, are another favorite among livebearing aquarium fish enthusiasts. With their fascinating colors and patterns, these fish bring a sense of diversity and vibrancy to your aquarium. Mollies are also relatively easy to care for, which makes them suitable for both experienced and beginner hobbyists.

• Adult Size:2.5 – 4.5 inches (6 – 11 cm)
• Minimum Tank Size:10 gallons (38 liters)
• Water Temperature:75 – 79°F (24 – 26°C)
• Temperament:Peaceful and friendly
• Lifespan:3 – 5 years

Whether you’re starting a new aquarium or looking to add variety to an existing one, Mollies are a lively and stunning addition well worth considering.

Platy Fish

Platy fish, also known as Xiphophorus maculatus, are yet another fantastic livebearing option for aquariums of all sizes. With their diverse range of colors, shapes, and patterns, Platies can truly create a visually striking aquatic environment. These hardy fish are also low-maintenance, which makes them perfect for aquarium enthusiasts at any level.

• Adult Size:1.5 – 2.5 inches (4 – 6 cm)
• Minimum Tank Size:10 gallons (38 liters)
• Water Temperature:72 – 78°F (22 – 26°C)
• Temperament:Peaceful and social
• Lifespan:3 – 4 years

Adding a school of Platy fish to your aquarium is a wonderful way to introduce color and interesting behaviors, while simultaneously keeping maintenance to a minimum.

Swordtail Fish

Swordtail fish, or Xiphophorus helleri, are an eye-catching and distinctive addition to any aquarium, thanks to their signature elongated lower fins resembling a sword. These livebearers are available in various colors and boast an active, lively nature that can energize your aquatic environment.

• Adult Size:3.5 – 6.3 inches (9 – 16 cm)
• Minimum Tank Size:15 gallons (57 liters)
• Water Temperature:72 – 79°F (22 – 26°C)
• Temperament:Peaceful and energetic
• Lifespan:3 – 5 years

If you’re in search of a visually unique addition to your aquarium community, Swordtail fish offer a fantastic blend of beauty, hardiness, and entertaining behavior that any hobbyist will appreciate.

Endler Guppy Fish

Endler Guppy fish, also known as Poecilia wingei, are a close relative of the classic Guppy but with their own unique flair. These small, vibrant fish boast breathtaking color combinations, making them a delightful addition to any aquatic environment.

• Adult Size:0.8 – 1.4 inches (2 – 3.5 cm)
• Minimum Tank Size:5 gallons (19 liters)
• Water Temperature:75 – 82°F (24 – 28°C)
• Temperament:Peaceful and sociable
• Lifespan:2 – 3 years

Endler Guppies are not only visually stunning, but they also have a friendly nature that allows them to get along well with other peaceful tank mates, making them an ideal choice for community aquariums.

Mosquitofish

Mosquitofish, or Gambusia affinis, are small livebearing fish with a unique purpose: controlling mosquito populations in ponds and other bodies of water. Although they lack the striking colors of other livebearers, their practicality makes them an interesting addition to outdoor water features or even larger indoor tanks.

• Adult Size:1.5 – 2 inches (3.8 – 5 cm)
• Minimum Tank Size:20 gallons (75 liters) for outdoor ponds; 10 gallons (38 liters) for indoor tanks
• Water Temperature:64 – 82°F (18 – 28°C)
• Temperament:Peaceful, but may be aggressive to smaller tank mates
• Lifespan:2 – 3 years

If you’re keen on adding an eco-friendly aspect to your aquatic habitat, Mosquitofish serve as unconventional yet practical livebearers that help maintain a mosquito-free environment.

Limia Fish

Limia fish, belonging to the genus Limia, are lesser-known livebearers that offer a unique and exciting addition to your aquarium. Hailing from the Caribbean region, these fish possess an intriguing beauty, coming in various sizes and colors depending on the species.

• Adult Size:1 – 4 inches (2.5 – 10 cm) depending on the species
• Minimum Tank Size:10 – 20 gallons (38 – 75 liters) based on species
• Water Temperature:73 – 79°F (23 – 26°C)
• Temperament:Peaceful and social
• Lifespan:3 – 5 years

For those who want to venture beyond the more common livebearers, Limia fish provide a captivating and peaceful option that will grace your underwater world with their gentle presence.

Goodeid Fish

Goodeid fish, members of the Goodeidae family, are a group of livebearing fish native to Mexico and the southern United States. These less-common but fascinating fish can offer a talking point for enthusiasts looking to diversify their aquatic collection.

• Adult Size:1.5 – 4 inches (4 – 10 cm) depending on the species
• Minimum Tank Size:15 – 30 gallons (57 – 114 liters) based on species
• Water Temperature:68 – 77°F (20 – 25°C)
• Temperament:Mostly peaceful, but some species may show aggression
• Lifespan:2 – 5 years

If you’re looking to add a touch of rarity and intrigue to your aquarium, Goodeid fish are an excellent choice for expanding your livebearing fish repertoire.

Least Killifish

Least Killifish, or Heterandria formosa, are petite livebearers native to the southeastern United States. Despite their small size, these fish bring a unique charm to aquariums, particularly in nano setups or as part of a peaceful community.

• Adult Size:0.7 – 1.2 inches (1.8 – 3 cm)
• Minimum Tank Size:5 gallons (19 liters)
• Water Temperature:68 – 80°F (20 – 27°C)
• Temperament:Peaceful and shy
• Lifespan:2 – 3 years

Though they may be unassuming compared to their more colorful counterparts, Least Killifish provide a delightful element of elegance and serenity to any aquarium that houses them.

Pike Killifish (Belonesox belizanus)

Pike Killifish, or Belonesox belizanus, are larger livebearing fish that will surely captivate aquarium hobbyists with their predatory disposition and elongated body shape. Hailing from Central America, these striking fish bring an element of excitement to larger tanks.

• Adult Size:4 – 5.5 inches (10 – 14 cm)
• Minimum Tank Size:20 gallons (76 liters) for juveniles; 40 gallons (150 liters) for adults
• Water Temperature:75 – 81°F (24 – 27°C)
• Temperament:Predatory and aggressive
• Lifespan:3 – 5 years

If you’re ready to challenge yourself with a more demanding livebearer species, Pike Killifish offer a unique, dynamic choice that will surely be a centerpiece in your aquarium.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the diverse world of livebearing fish offers an enthralling range of options for aquarium enthusiasts at every level. Whether you prefer the delicate grace of Endler Guppies or the assertive presence of Pike Killifish, there’s a livebearer for everyone. Share your favorite livebearing fish in the comments below!