Developing a New Guppy Strain — 5-Year Timeline

Year 1 — Foundation

Select parent stock with desired traits. Often multiple strains combined.

First cross, observe offspring, begin selective breeding.

Years 2-3 — Fixation

Breed selected offspring together. Cull ruthlessly for desired traits.

First sign of type consistency emerges — most fry show strain traits.

Years 3-4 — Refinement

Outcross once to revive genetic diversity. Select back toward strain.

Begin entering shows in local/regional competitions. Feedback from judges informs next steps.

Year 5+ — Recognition

Strain consistency reaches 70%+ — most offspring look like strain standard.

Register with IFGA or equivalent organization. Name and document the strain.

Continue line breeding to maintain quality across generations.