Home

/

Fish species

/

Cobra Guppy

Cobra Guppy

Origin

🇺🇸

United States

Habitat Size

20-50 Liters

Water Type

Fresh Water

Water Temperature

22º-28ºC

Cost in India

₹50 - ₹100

Size

1.5 - 2.5 inches (Nano)

Diet

Omnivore

A Cobra Guppy with a shimmering body and a fanned black red and white tail fin
written by image

by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 14 Nov 2025

Cobra Guppy is scientifically known as the Poecilia reticulata. It is a captivating fish found in freshwaters. The fish boasts vibrant colours & has intricate patterns resembling a cobra's scales. It is native to South America, particularly the tropical regions of Venezuela and Guyana.

Their hardy nature and adaptability make them suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. With a variety of colour morphs available, including red, blue, green, and yellow, Cobra Guppies add a dynamic splash of colour to any aquarium setup.

Cobra Guppy Size

The adult size of the Cobra Guppy Fish is 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm).

Lifespan of Cobra Guppy Fish

Cobra Guppy lifespan is anywhere between 2 to 3 years. They might live longer if kept in good living conditions.

Cobra Guppy Price

The price of the Cobra Guppy fish is anywhere between ₹70 to ₹599 INR. It can be purchased from online websites or offline aquarium stores.

Best Tank Mates

  1. Neon Tetras
  2. Mollies
  3. Platies
  4. Endler's Livebearers
  5. Small Corydoras species
  6. Amano Shrimp
  7. Snails like Nerite or Mystery Snails

Avoid Pairing with

  1. Large Cichlids (e.g., Oscars, Jack Dempseys)
  2. Aggressive Barbs (e.g., Tiger Barbs)
  3. Betta Fish (especially males)
  4. Predatory Catfish (e.g., Redtail, Pictus)
  5. Arowanas or other large predator fish

Characteristics

Temperament

Aggressive

Friendly

Compatibility with other fishes

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Habitat Size

Small

Large

about image

Cobra Guppy Habitat Requirement

Initial Setup Cost

₹3,000 - ₹6,000

Water Temperature

22º -28ºC

Water Type

Fresh Water

PH Level

6.5 - 7.5

Creating an optimal environment for the Cobra Guppy fish is essential for their well-being.

Parameter

Ideal Range

Tank Size

Minimum 10 gallons (~38 litres)

Water Temperature

24–28°C (75–82°F)

pH Level

7.0–8.0 (slightly alkaline)

Substrate

Fine gravel or sand

Filtration

Moderate, with gentle flow

Lighting

Moderate to bright

Plants & Decor

Live plants, driftwood, and hiding spots

Essential Equipment

Aquarium tank

Water filter

Heater

Light

Substrate

Decor

Nutritional Guide For Cobra Guppy Fish

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹50 - ₹ 100

Cobra Guppies are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet.

Food Type

Examples

Staple Diet

High-quality flake or micro-pellets

Protein Sources

Brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms

Vegetable Matter

Blanched spinach, zucchini, peas

Feeding Frequency

2–3 times daily

about image

Health & Care of Cobra Guppy Fish

Common Health Issues

Fin rot

White spot / ick

Fungus

Dropsy (swollen abdomen)

Ammonia poisoning

Signs of good health

Active

Bright coloration

Good apetite

Signs of sickness

Loss of appetite

Lethargic behaviour

Tattered fins

Dull coloring

Swimming abnormally

Maintaining a clean and stable environment is crucial for the health of Cobra Guppy fish.

Common Issues

Prevention Tips

Ich (White Spot Disease)

Maintain stable water temperature and quality

Fin Rot

Avoid overcrowding and ensure good water circulation

Swim Bladder Disorder

Avoid overfeeding and provide a balanced diet

Prerequisites for a Fish

Adequate tank space

Cleanliness

Effort & commitment

Enriching Environment

written by image

Written by

Happy Pet Team

Author

Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.

Our cont
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal tank size for Cobra Guppies?

A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended for a small group.

Can Cobra Guppies live with Betta fish?

It's best to avoid keeping them with Betta fish due to potential aggression.

How often should I feed my Cobra Guppies?

Feed them 2–3 times daily, offering small portions they can consume in 2–3 minutes.

Are Cobra Guppies easy to breed?

Yes, they are livebearers and breed readily in suitable conditions.

What is the lifespan of a Cobra Guppy fish?

With proper care, they can live up to 2–3 years in captivity.