Molly (Poecilia sp.)

lauraleellbp

Mollies are a very diverse fish- a huge variety of both wild species exists, as well as domesticated fancy strains. FishBase.org lists more than 20 wild species. All are native to North, Central, South America and surrounding islands. Mollies are found primarily in freshwater, but also commonly in brackish and even saltwater environments. Mollies will benefit from ½ tsp. non-iodized salt per gallon of water; a dosage which should not harm most other fish or plants. Mollies are omnivores but need vegetable-rich diets. Mollies will eat many aquatic plants.

The Mexican Sailfin pictured (Poecilia latipinna) is one of the largest species- able to grow up to 7”. Sailfins (P. velifera) can grow to 4.75.” Black and Short-finned Mollies (P. sphenops) are the smallest, reaching only 2.3.” A minimum of a 20 gallon Long tank is needed for the smaller species, and a 40 gal minimum for Sailfins. They are peaceful community fish. Mollies are best kept in trios, at least 2 females per 1 male. Males are smaller and thinner than females, and possess the gonopodium anal fin common to most livebearers. They are prolific livebearers, though less so than Guppies or Platies.

Gezza

I bred black mollies excellently and they grew quick too. I recently bought a black swordtail molly and it now eats the plec tabs I put in for the bottom feeders. Their colours are too different, sailfin mollies seem to have a more diverse colour range than balloon mollies though dalmation mollies have beautiful babies.

skinz180189

I have 5 Dalmation mollies, and they breed easily (mine dropped some fry a soon as I introduced them).
They have a crazy appetite, constantly nibbling at any algae, and eat up all the flaked food I can throw at them. This appetite means they produce a lot of waste though. Mine have also taken a liking to catfish pellets, yet will not eat cucumber or lettuce, which many say their mollies will eat.
Mollies are a very hardy fish, and they are great for hard water and slightly alkaline water (my water is pH 7.5).

plantedjack

I have a tank with just mollies and constantly trying to find new homes for the fry. I have recently purchased a new canister filter (attached to a spray bar) though have noticed increased water current. Do mollies do well in slighly turbulent waters or do they prefer still water?