Detailed Guide to Water Temperature in Guppy Tanks
I. Core Temperature Parameters
Ideal Range
Adult Guppies: 24–26°C (optimal at 25°C)
Fry/Breeding Period: 26–28°C (promotes growth and development)
Survival Limits: 15–34°C (long-term exposure to extreme ends shortens lifespan)
Relationship Between Temperature and Health
Below 22°C: Metabolic rate slows down; immune system weakens.
Above 28°C: Dissolved oxygen decreases; guppies are prone to gasping at the water surface.
II. Temperature Management Plan
Equipment Setup
Essential: 50W–100W heater (calculate 1W per 1L of water).
Supplementary: Digital thermostat (±0.5°C accuracy) + glass thermometer (for double calibration).
Daily Maintenance
When Changing Water: The temperature difference between new water and tank water must be ≤1°C.
Seasonal Adjustments:
Winter: Set the heater to 25°C (run 24/7 in northern regions with cold winters).
Summer: Use shading and fans to cool the water (prevent temperatures from exceeding 30°C).
III. Handling Special Scenarios
Breeding Period
It is recommended to keep the temperature stable at 26–28°C (shortens the spawning cycle).
Post-Breeding Recovery: Maintain 26°C to reduce mortality among female guppies.
Disease Treatment
Ich (White Spot Disease): Gradually raise the temperature to 30°C (increase by 1°C per day).
Enteritis: Keep the temperature at 25°C and stop feeding temporarily.
IV. Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Directly mixing hot water to adjust temperature (risk of scalding guppies).
❌ Relying solely on room temperature (a daily fluctuation of over 3°C is dangerous).
❌ Fully submerging the heater (keep it 5cm above the tank bottom to prevent scalding).
Operational Tips
Place the thermometer in the middle of the tank (not near the heater).
Calibrate the thermometer once a week.
Wrap the tank with insulation foam during power outages (for emergency winter use).
(Note: All temperature data applies to freshwater guppies. Saltwater varieties require separate adjustments.)