Appearance
One of the most obvious differences between guppies and minnows is their appearance. Guppies are typically more colorful than minnows, with males often displaying bright reds, blues, and greens. Minnows, on the other hand, are usually more drab in color, with mostly silvery or gray bodies.
Guppies also have a longer, more slender body than minnows. Minnows are generally shorter and have a more rounded body.
Temperament
Guppies are known for being peaceful and social fish that get along well with other species. Minnows, on the other hand, can be more aggressive and territorial, especially during breeding season.
Diet
Guppies and minnows are both omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, live food, and vegetables. However, guppies are typically more tolerant of a wider range of foods than minnows.
Breeding
Guppies are a live-bearing species, which means that they give birth to live young. Female guppies can give birth to as many as 100 fry at a time, and they can reproduce multiple times throughout the year. Minnows, on the other hand, are egg-layers. Female minnows typically lay several hundred eggs at a time, and the eggs hatch about a week later.
Lifespan
Guppies have a lifespan of about two years, while minnows can live for up to five years.
In summary, guppies and minnows are both popular choices for home aquariums, but there are some key differences between the two species. Guppies are more colorful, peaceful, and easy to care for than minnows.