Male Guppies:
* Larger, more colorful: They often have vibrant, flashy colors, patterns, and fins.
* Gonopodium: The most obvious indicator is the presence of a modified anal fin called a gonopodium. It's a pointed, tube-like structure used for internal fertilization.
* Smaller size: Male guppies are typically smaller than females.
* Longer, flowing fins: They often have long, flowing tails and dorsal fins.
Female Guppies:
* Duller colors: Females generally have less intense colors and more subtle patterns.
* No gonopodium: They have a normal, fan-shaped anal fin.
* Larger size: Females are typically larger than males.
* Rounder belly: When pregnant, a female guppy's belly will become noticeably rounded.
Tips for Distinguishing:
* Look for the gonopodium: This is the most reliable way to tell the difference.
* Observe the color: While not foolproof, male guppies tend to be more colorful.
* Consider the size: Females are usually larger, but this can vary depending on the breed.
* Watch for pregnancy: If you see a rounded belly, it's likely a female.
Remember: Some guppy breeds have unique color variations that can make it harder to distinguish between males and females based on color alone.