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Abstract

The present study addresses the question of whether or not two guppy species, theÌýEndler’s guppy (Poecilia wingei) and the common guppy (Poecilia reticulata) are able toÌýmate and produce offspring. The question of interest is in the context of the conservationÌýof the Endler’s guppy that occurs only in a limited habitat compared to the widespreadÌýcommon guppy. Female mate choice, male mating behaviors, and possible hybridÌýoffspring of these two species were assessed to determine if the two species will mate andÌýproduce offspring. Endler’s guppies’ females did not show a preference for males of theirÌýown species, for higher levels of carotenoid coloration, or for larger size in males.ÌýAdditionally, males of these two species did not exhibit significant differences in matingÌýbehaviors. Finally, these two species were capable of producing hybrid offspring.ÌýHybridization in their natural habitats may cause a loss of the Endler’s guppy, which isÌýdiscussed in the context of the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem services.