What size tank does a Endler's Livebearer need?

Endler's Livebearer needs a minimum of 5 gallons, with 10 gallons recommended. They are top swimmers. Keep in groups of 3+.

Is Endler's Livebearer good for beginners?

Endler's Livebearer is rated "beginner" difficulty (1/5). Great for beginners.

What fish are compatible with Endler's Livebearer?

Endler's Livebearer is peaceful. Compatible tank mates include other peaceful fish with similar water parameters (pH 6.5-8, temp 72-82°F).

Endler's Livebearer

Poecilia wingei

Family: Poeciliidae • Origin: South America

Endler's Livebearers are smaller, more active cousins of the guppy with intense metallic coloration. Perfect for nano tanks.

Min Tank

5 gal

Max Size

1.5"

Temperature

72-82°F

6.5-8

Lifespan

3 years

School Size

Swim Level

top

Hardness

8-20 dGH

peacefulbeginneromnivoreschooling

Is Endler's Livebearer Right for Your Tank?

Endler's Livebearer is an excellent choice for beginners — rated "beginner" difficulty (1/5). They're hardy, forgiving of minor water parameter fluctuations, and generally easy to feed. At just 5 gallons minimum, they work well in nano tanks and smaller setups.

With a peaceful temperament, Endler's Livebearer makes a great community fish. They coexist well with other non-aggressive species of similar size. This is a schooling species — keep at least 3 together, or they may become stressed and display abnormal behavior. Expected lifespan: 3 years with proper care.

Common Mistakes with Endler's Livebearer

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Keeping fewer than 3 together

Endler's Livebearer is a schooling species — they need a group of at least 3 to feel secure. Lone or paired individuals become stressed, hide constantly, and may develop health issues or aggression.

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Relying on a heater without a thermometer

Endler's Livebearer needs 72–82°F. Heaters malfunction or drift over time — always use a separate thermometer to verify. Temperature swings of even 3–4°F can trigger stress and disease, particularly ich.

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Putting them in a tank under 5 gallons

While 5 gallons is the minimum, nano tanks require more frequent water changes and leave less room for error. A slightly larger tank (10 gal) is much more forgiving.