Below is a detailed classification and characteristic analysis of guppy varieties, covering dimensions such as ornamental value, breeding difficulty, and market recognition:
I. Mainstream Strain Classifications (Per International Standards)
Tuxedo Series
Features: The rear half of the body is solid black/dark-colored, with unmarked tail fins, resembling a formal evening gown.
Representative varieties: Red Tuxedo (bright red tail fins), Blue Tuxedo (metallic blue tail), Black Tuxedo (jet-black entire body).
Mosaic Series
Features: Tail fin patterns are mosaic-like or ring-shaped, with a deep blue block at the base of the tail.
Representative varieties: Red Mosaic (red-yellow mottling), Yellow Mosaic (golden ).
Grass Tail Series
Features: Tail fins covered in small black dots, with patterns as delicate as a lawn.
Representative varieties: Blue Grass Tail (blue base with black dots), Red Grass Tail (crimson spots).
Snake King Series
Features: Body covered in complex snake-skin patterns with strong metallic luster.
Representative variety: Red-Tailed Snake King (red tail paired with silver-blue patterns).
II. Special Morphological Varieties
Swordtail Types
Lower Swordtail (lower part of the tail fin extends like a sword), Double Swordtail (both upper and lower parts extend).
Representative species: Andalusian Double Swordtail (a rare swordtail variety).
Half-Moon Dragon Series
Features: Tail fin spreads 180 degrees, with a broad dorsal fin like a folding fan.
Subtypes: Purple Dragon (blue-purple gradient), Yellow Dragon (metallic yellow patterns).
Ribbon Body
Features: Dorsal/caudal fins extended in ribbon-like strands, flowing gracefully when swimming.
Representative species: Ribbon Glass Body (transparent fin rays).
III. High-End Rare Varieties
Full Red Albino (Blood Red)
Carries the red-eyed albino gene, with a bright red body like blood; high breeding difficulty.
Elephant Ear Red
Pearl-white body + flame-colored tail, with sapphire-colored "ears"; priced at several hundred yuan per fish.
Moscow Blue
Entire body has a deep blue metallic sheen, requiring specific water quality maintenance.
IV. Beginner-Friendly Varieties
Large-Dorsal Folding Fan
Has distinctively ruffled dorsal fins, strong adaptability, and affordable prices (starting from a few dozen yuan).
Mixed-Robe Guppy
Hybrid varieties with robust health but unstable appearance.
V. Purchasing Recommendations
Prioritizing Ornamental Value: Tuxedo series (elegant) and Snake King series (striking).
Low Breeding Difficulty: Folding fan types and mixed-robe varieties.
Rare Collections: For Elephant Ear Red and Swordtail types, confirm pedigree certificates.
Note: Prices for the same variety can vary drastically based on quality (e.g., folding fan guppies range from a few dozen to over a thousand yuan). Beginners are advised to start with budget-friendly varieties.