Guppy vs Mahi-mahi
Poecilia reticulata compared with Coryphaena hippurus
Taxonomy & Classification
| Attribute | Guppy | Mahi-mahi |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Poecilia reticulata | Coryphaena hippurus |
| Order | Cyprinodontiformes | Carangiformes |
| Family | Poeciliidae | Coryphaenidae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Physical Traits
| Attribute | Guppy | Mahi-mahi |
|---|---|---|
| Max Length | 6.0 cm | 210.0 cm |
| Max Weight | 0.002 kg | 40.0 kg |
| Color | Males display highly variable iridescent patterns on a gray-olive body; spots, reticulations, and solid patches of red, orange, blue, green, and black; flowing fantail fins often multicolored. | Dazzling iridescent blue-green and gold flanks; males have a blunt squared-off head; flanks flicker golden-yellow to electric blue when alive, fading to dull gray-green at death. |
Habitat & Environment
| Attribute | Guppy | Mahi-mahi |
|---|---|---|
| Water Type | Brackish | Saltwater |
| Depth Range | — | 0-85m |
| Geographic Range | Native to freshwater and slightly brackish streams of northern South America including Venezuela, Trinidad, and Barbados. Tolerates a wide range of salinities; introduced on every … | Worldwide in tropical and subtropical oceanic waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans. Highly pelagic; gathers around floating sargassum mats, current lines, and thermocline … |
| Habitat | Slow-moving rivers, streams, ponds, and drainage ditches of northern South America (Venezuela, Trinidad). Warm, shallow water with dense vegetation (22-28°C). Highly adaptable; introduced worldwide. | Neritic, pelagic, coral reefs |
Aquarium Suitability
| Attribute | Guppy | Mahi-mahi |
|---|---|---|
| Min Tank Size | 38 L | — |
| Temperature | 22-28 | — |
| pH Range | 6.8-7.8 | — |
| Care Level | Easy | — |
| Temperament | Peaceful | — |
Fishing Information
| Attribute | Guppy | Mahi-mahi |
|---|---|---|
| Game Fish | No | Yes |
| Fight Rating | — | 7/10 |
| World Record | — | — |
| Mercury Level | — | — |
Cuisine & Edibility
Guppy
Not consumed — a tiny ornamental livebearer prized by hobbyists for its dazzling color variations and ease of breeding in the aquarium.
Mahi-mahi
Firm, slightly sweet flesh with large, moist flakes and low fat. Excellent grilled, blackened Cajun-style, or in tacos; one of the most popular sport fish for the table.
Species Overview
Guppy
The guppy is one of the most widely distributed tropical fish, found in freshwater habitats across the Americas. Males display vivid colors and elaborate tail patterns to attract females. They are live-bearers, giving birth to free-swimming fry.
Mahi-mahi
The mahi-mahi, also known as dorado or dolphinfish, is among the most colorful pelagic fish in the ocean. Its iridescent blue, green, and gold body fades rapidly after death. It is a fast-growing species, rarely living beyond five years.