đ Molly Fish (Poecilia sphenops)
The Molly Fish is a versatile livebearer available in an incredible variety of colors and fin types. From the classic black molly to dramatic sailfin varieties, mollies are hardy, peaceful, and make excellent community fish. They're unique among freshwater fish in their ability to tolerate brackish and even full marine conditions.
đ Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Poecilia sphenops and related species |
|---|---|
| Adult Size | 3-5 inches (7.5-12.5 cm) |
| Minimum Tank | 20 gallons (75 liters) |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Lifespan | 3-5 years |
| Origin | Central America, Mexico |
đ Popular Varieties
- Black Molly - Solid black, most popular
- Dalmatian Molly - White with black spots
- Sailfin Molly - Large dramatic dorsal fin
- Balloon Molly - Rounded body shape
- Lyretail Molly - Forked tail fin
- Gold/Orange Molly - Bright coloration
â ī¸ Important Considerations
- Prefer hard, alkaline water - May struggle in soft water
- Prolific breeders - Livebearers that breed constantly
- Males harass females - Keep 2-3 females per male
- Can go brackish - Salt can help health
đ Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum (sailfins need 30+)
- Plants: Appreciate live plants
- Space: Active swimmers need room
- Salt: 1 tsp/gallon can benefit health (optional)
Water Parameters
| Temperature | 72-82°F (22-28°C) |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.5-8.5 (prefer alkaline) |
| Hardness | 15-30 dGH (prefer hard water) |
| Ammonia/Nitrite | 0 ppm |
| Nitrate | <40 ppm |
đŊī¸ Diet & Feeding
Omnivores with herbivorous tendencies.
- Quality flakes - Staple
- Spirulina flakes/wafers - Important for health
- Blanched vegetables - Zucchini, peas, spinach
- Frozen foods - Occasional protein
- Algae - Will graze naturally
Feed 2-3 times daily. Include vegetable matter regularly.
đ Compatibility
Good Tankmates
- Other livebearers (guppies, platies, swordtails)
- Corydoras
- Peaceful tetras
- Rainbowfish
- Peaceful barbs
- Snails
Avoid
- Fin nippers - Especially with sailfin/lyretail
- Aggressive fish
- Fish requiring soft acidic water
đļ Breeding
- Livebearers - Give birth to live fry
- Gestation: 60-70 days
- Fry per batch: 20-100
- Fry survival: Provide plants for hiding
- Females store sperm - Multiple batches from one mating
đĄ Tips for Success
- Keep in hard, alkaline water
- Consider adding aquarium salt
- Maintain 2-3 females per male
- Include vegetable matter in diet
- Have a plan for fry
đ Summary
Mollies are hardy, colorful livebearers that thrive in harder water conditions where many fish struggle. Their variety of colors and fin types, peaceful nature, and ease of breeding make them excellent community fish for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.