El Tigre Endlers Males

The El Tigre Endler, scientifically known as Poecilia wingei “El Tigre,” is a naturally occurring wild strain of Endler’s livebearer collected from the El Tigre stream in the Campoma region of Venezuela. This makes it a genuine Class N wild strain, meaning it is a direct, naturally established population and not a hybridized or selectively bred form. These wild Endlers are highly valued by hobbyists for their authentic genetics, conservation importance, and vibrant natural coloration.

Adult El Tigre Endlers typically reach about 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 3.5 cm) in length. Males are especially vivid, with iridescent green and gold bodies accented by bold black bands and patches of orange or red, creating a tiger-like appearance that inspired their name. Females are larger, rounder, and less colorful, usually a plain silvery-gray with transparent fins.

A tank of at least 10 gallons is suitable for a small colony. El Tigre Endlers are active, peaceful, and best kept in groups. Provide a planted aquarium with dense vegetation, floating plants, and open swimming areas. A soft sand or fine gravel substrate with driftwood and rocks replicates their natural environment. They thrive in both species-only tanks and peaceful community aquariums with other small fish and invertebrates.

Water parameters should include a temperature of 72 to 80°F (22 to 27°C), a pH between 6.8 and 8.0, and moderately hard to hard water, which reflects the mineral-rich waters of their native streams. Regular partial water changes and stable conditions are key to maintaining health and color.

Feeding Poecilia wingei “El Tigre” is easy, as they are omnivorous. They accept high-quality flakes or micro pellets as a staple, and should be supplemented with live or frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Vegetable matter, including spirulina or blanched spinach, helps ensure balanced nutrition and long-term health.

El Tigre Endlers are peaceful and well suited to community setups with other small, non-aggressive species. Avoid housing them with larger or aggressive tankmates that may harass or prey on them.

Breeding El Tigre Endlers is straightforward. They are livebearers, and females give birth to free-swimming fry approximately every 3 to 4 weeks. Provide dense planting or breeding mops to protect the fry, as adults may eat them. Fry will readily accept powdered foods or baby brine shrimp.

Poecilia wingei “El Tigre” (El Tigre Endler) is a dazzling wild strain that combines natural beauty, genetic authenticity, and ease of care. It is a favorite for hobbyists interested in conservation-friendly fishkeeping and true wild Endler diversity.