Dumbo Guppy

The Dumbo Guppy, also known as the Elephant Ear Guppy, is a stunning and elegant freshwater fish prized for its oversized pectoral fins that resemble the large, flapping ears of an elephant. This unique trait, combined with the guppy’s vibrant colors and playful personality, makes the Dumbo Guppy one of the most popular and eye-catching livebearers in the aquarium hobby.

Originating from selective breeding of the common guppy (Poecilia reticulata), Dumbo Guppies come in a wide range of brilliant colors and tail types — from flowing delta tails to fan or lyre shapes. Their large, round pectoral fins move gracefully as they swim, giving them a distinctive and almost “flying” appearance.

These guppies are small, typically growing to around 1.5 to 2.5 inches, and they thrive in community aquariums with other peaceful fish. They do best in groups, as they are social and enjoy interacting with their tankmates. Ideal tank conditions include warm, clean water with a temperature range of 72–82°F and a pH between 6.8–7.8. A 10-gallon or larger tank is recommended for a small group, with live plants and gentle filtration to create a calm and healthy environment.

Dumbo Guppies are hardy and adaptable, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists. However, due to their long fins, they should not be kept with fin-nipping fish such as barbs or some tetras. Peaceful species like mollies, platys, rasboras, and corydoras catfish make excellent companions.

Feeding Dumbo Guppies is easy — they are omnivores and will readily accept a wide variety of foods. A balanced diet of high-quality flake food, micro pellets, and occasional treats of live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia helps keep their colors vibrant and their fins healthy.

Like all guppies, Dumbo Guppies are prolific livebearers. Females give birth to fully formed fry rather than laying eggs, and a single female can produce up to 30–50 babies every month. To ensure fry survival, provide plenty of hiding spots with plants or breeding grass, as adults may eat their young if left in the same tank.

The Dumbo Guppy is a perfect blend of beauty and personality — graceful, colorful, and full of life. Whether you’re looking to start a peaceful community tank or add a splash of elegance to your aquarium, the Dumbo Guppy is a delightful choice that will never go unnoticed.