How to Show Guppies in Fish Competitions

Guppies are a popular pet among fish lovers everywhere. Guppies maintain their popularity because they're non-aggressive, easy to breed and they come in a variety of colors and shapes. Wild guppies are usually an olive green color but you can breed guppies to have bright green, red or royal blue colorations. Naturally, aesthetic variations lend guppies to fish breeding, shows and competitions.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Purchase guppies that are aesthetically pleasing to you. If you choose to breed the guppies, only assign three fish per tank to maintain a pure line.

2. Place a heater and a thermometer in your guppy tanks. Most guppies prefer water to be between 75 to 85 degrees F.

3. Put an expecting female guppy in a tank alone so that she may give birth peacefully. After the female gives birth, place her back in the adult tank.

4. Feed baby guppies brine shrimp until they're four weeks old. After this period of time, feed the guppies flakes that are especially made for tropical fish. These flakes help to enhance the coloration.

5. Show the guppies that achieve that most brilliant coloration. Often, people show male guppies more in competitions because males tend to achieve more vibrant colors.

6. Examine guppies when they reach 10 to 26 weeks old. During this time, guppies peak in appearance and this time is best for competitions.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep rocks and plants in guppy tank. This environment makes guppies feel more secure because they have hiding places.
• Don't place baby fish with adults until they're at least one inch long.