FishChecker

The Molly (Poecilia sp.) is a highly popular and beloved freshwater fish, celebrated for its robust nature, striking color varieties, and lively personality, making it a staple in community aquariums. Originating from the warm waters of Central and South America, Mollies are known for their adaptability and hardiness. They come in an astonishing array of shapes and colors, including the common Black Molly, the vibrant Orange Molly, White Molly, Dalmation Molly, and the unique Lyretail and Sailfin varieties, which boast impressively elongated dorsal fins. Their body shape is typically full-bodied and somewhat flattened laterally, reaching an adult size of 2 to 5 inches depending on the specific species and sex. Mollies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to free-swimming fry rather than laying eggs, a fascinating process that can occur frequently in a well-maintained tank. They are generally peaceful fish, though some male Mollies can be a bit territorial with each other, especially if there aren't enough females. It's best to keep them in groups with a ratio of one male to two or three females to prevent excessive harassment. Mollies thrive in well-filtered aquariums of at least 10-20 gallons (depending on the type and number of fish), with a preference for slightly alkaline to hard water (pH 7.0-8.5) and temperatures between 72-82°F (22-28°C). While they are freshwater fish, some varieties can tolerate or even appreciate a small amount of aquarium salt in their water. Their diet is omnivorous, consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food supplemented with live or frozen brine shrimp, bloodworms, and vegetable matter like spirulina or blanched zucchini. Mollies are active swimmers and will appreciate a tank with plenty of open space for swimming, as well as dense planting for shelter and a sense of security. Due to their relatively easy care and engaging behavior, Mollies are an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists looking to add a splash of color and activity to their community tank.

Prefer slightly harder water.