Molly care guide
Molly (Poecilia sphenops) — minimum tank 75 L, temperature 22-28 °C, pH 7-8.5. Peaceful middle-water species.
Overview
The Molly (Poecilia sphenops) is a versatile livebearer native to Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras. It tolerates both freshwater and slightly brackish conditions and is available in black, white, dalmatian and other selectively bred forms. The species is an effective algae grazer.
Taxonomy
- Family: Poeciliidae
- Genus: Poecilia
- Scientific name: Poecilia sphenops
- Common synonyms: Short-finned Molly
Habitat
Found from the Palma Sola River in north-eastern Mexico south through Guatemala to western Honduras. Inhabits rivers, ponds, lagoons, roadside ditches and creeks, typically in waters under 1 m deep, and tolerates stagnant conditions.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 75 L (19.8 US gal)
- Adult size: 6-10 cm
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 7-8.5
- GH: 10-25 °dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
Diet
An omnivore with a strong herbivorous component; algae and diatoms form a substantial part of the natural diet, supplemented with phytoplankton, rotifers, crustaceans and insect larvae. In aquaria provide a vegetable-rich diet with spirulina-based flakes or pellets and occasional live or frozen foods.
Compatibility
A peaceful community fish. Compatible with Platy, Swordtail, Guppy and Corydoras. Due to its preference for harder, more alkaline water, it is less suitable for soft-water blackwater communities or with sensitive species that require acidic water.
Breeding
A prolific livebearer producing up to about 150 fry after roughly a month-long gestation. Reproduction is essentially continuous when conditions are favourable. Provide floating plants or a separate nursery to improve juvenile survival.