Poecilia reticulata var.
Also known as: Snakeskin Guppy, Snake Skin Guppy
Origin: Captive bred (originally Trinidad)
The Snakeskin Guppy is distinguished by a finely reticulated scale pattern resembling a serpent's skin, achieved through selective breeding and expressed most intensely in males. The patterning typically continues into the caudal and dorsal fins, creating a cohesive and visually complex fish.
This strain requires consistent water quality to maintain pattern intensity. Soft or acidic water tends to reduce colour saturation, while hard, alkaline conditions allow the pattern to express fully.
Snakeskin is a dominant genetic trait; breeding a snakeskin male with a quality female reliably produces patterned offspring, making this an excellent strain for hobbyist breeders.
Water: 22–28 °C, pH 7.0–8.0, GH 10–20; hard water essential for best pattern expression. Tank: 60 L minimum; moderate planting; avoid strong currents that stress fin development. Feeding: Varied diet of flake, micro-pellets, live/frozen foods; 2–3 meals daily. Breeding: 20–50 fry per brood; snakeskin pattern is dominant; strain-breed for quality offspring. Compatibility: Peaceful community fish; separate from fin-nipping species.
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