A pair of feral guppies in a shallow, concretised stream in Singapore. The pair probably comprises a male (left) and female (right).

Family : POECILIIDAE
Species : Poecilia reticulata
Maximum Length : Male 3 cm, Female 5.5 cm

References : F1

Originating from South America and the Caribbean, the diminutive Guppy was introduced into many countries during the last century as a means of mosquito control, but it is debatable as to whether this had much effect on mosquito populations.

The species can thrive in tropical waters of varying pH, and can tolerate highly polluted water - it can be found in shallow streams, open drains and urban canals.

Males are much smaller than females, and are generally more brightly coloured. The females do not lay eggs, but are live-bearers. Guppies are highly favoured as aquarium fish

The species has been introduced to most countries of Southeast Asia, particularly Singapore.