Tiger Endler

Tiger Endlers (Poecilia wingei) are an attractive selectively bred Endler variety recognised for their bold black barring over bright yellow, orange and metallic colouration. Males are particularly striking, displaying the characteristic tiger-like patterning that gives this variety its name, while females are generally larger and much more subdued in colour. Their small size, constant activity and peaceful temperament make them an excellent choice for planted nano and community aquariums.

Maximum adult size: Males approximately 2–2.5 cm; females approximately 3–4 cm.

Temperament: Peaceful, active and social. Tiger Endlers are best kept in groups and can be housed alongside other small, peaceful fish and suitable invertebrates. Males actively court females, so a ratio of approximately two to three females per male is recommended when keeping mixed-sex groups.

Difficulty of care: Easy. Tiger Endlers are hardy and adaptable, making them an excellent choice for beginners as well as experienced aquarists.

Preferred Temperature: 22–28 °C, with approximately 24–26 °C being ideal for general maintenance.

Preferred pH of water: Approximately 7.0–8.0. They generally perform best in moderately hard to hard, mineral-rich water.

Type of breeding: Livebearer. Females give birth to fully formed, free-swimming fry and can reproduce regularly when kept in suitable conditions. Dense planting, moss and floating plants provide valuable hiding places for newborn fry.

Tiger Endlers are omnivorous and readily accept quality fine flakes and small granules. Their diet should be supplemented with appropriately sized frozen or live foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia and microworms. They will also graze on algae, biofilm and other microorganisms around the aquarium.

A well-planted aquarium with plenty of swimming space provides an ideal environment. Although small, Tiger Endlers are energetic swimmers and appreciate clean, well-filtered water with a gentle to moderate current. Like other Endlers, they can readily hybridise with guppies, so the two should be kept separately if maintaining the Tiger Endler strain is important.