Dumbo Ear Guppy

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Russian-Asian commercial hybrid. Developed by exasperating an Asian mutation (Big Ear) paired with "Moscow" or "Tuxedo" guppies of American origin.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Dumbo Ear Guppy (Poecilia reticulata). Grotesque or wonderful poeciliid (depending on taste). The mutation transforms the two microscopic pectoral fins into gigantic "Elephant Ears" similar to butterfly wings.

Social Behavior: The strenuous swimmer. The pectoral fins, normally used for micro-directional corrections, have become real, very heavy "oars". The male spends his life "rowing" strenuously to keep up with the females.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Dumbo Mosaic/Moscow. The pectoral "ears" (generally very black, blue or purple) fiercely contrast with the body livery (often rainbow or red Mosaic). Dumbo females have slightly enlarged and black pectoral fins, an unusual trait for female guppies.

Aquarium Setup: Tank for the disabled. A standard filter will hurl them against the glass causing them to die of fatigue. They require sponge filters (Air-driven) in calm tanks with many resting spots (large Anubias leaves).

Diet and Feeding: Voracious eater. Slower than other guppies in pouncing on food. You have to make sure to scatter the feed or use granules of varying weight so that something reaches the Dumbos without the more agile fish stealing everything.

Water Quality: Like all hyper-selected Asian guppies, they do not tolerate new tap water or thermal instability well. Hard water, non-iodized sea salt (slight addition) and total hygiene are the keys to success.

Compatibility and Tankmates: The "Ears" are magnets for bullies. Rasboras, Barbs and even too lively Platies will systematically bite the Dumbo's large black oars. Pair strictly only with Neocaridina, dwarf Corydoras or in a "Dumbo Only tank".

Aquarium Reproduction: The Big Ear (Dumbo) gene is incomplete dominant. By mating two Dumbos, you will have mixed litters (some huge, others normal). Females are ruthless hunters of their own young.

Risks and Diseases: Parasites and collapse. The immense black pectoral fins, if examined closely, are the first place where Ichthyophthirius (Ich) and fungi (Saprolegnia) nest. A healthy Dumbo "rows" constantly and keeps them open; if it closes them and collapses, it is near the end.