Poecilia latipinna

From The Aquarium Wiki

Molly
Molly
Species	Poecilia latipinna
Difficulty	Easy
Min. Tank Size	56.781 liters 56,781.177 mL 15 US Gallons (56.8L)
Size	12.7 cm 3-5 " (7.6-12.7cm)
pH	7.5 - 8.2
Temp.	298.15 K 77 °F 536.67 °R 301.15 K 82.4 °F 542.07 °R25 -28 °C (77-82.4°F)
Water Hardness	8-18
Stocking Ratio	1:2 M:F
Availability	Common
Diet	Omnivore Pellet Foods Flake Foods Live Foods
Life Span	3-5 years

[edit] Alternative names

Molly, Sailfin Molly, Lyretail Molly

[edit] Sexing

The male has a gonopodium fin and smaller than the female who will have a rounder larger body shape.

[edit] Tank compatibility

A relatively peaceful fish, however, the male will chase the females and therefore they must be kept in the ratio of one male per two/three females. They should only be kept with similar sized robust, but not aggressive, fish.

[edit] Diet

Will graze on algae as well as accepting most foods including pellet and flake, as well as spirulina, brine shrimp and bloodworm.

[edit] Feeding regime

Feed once or twice a day.

[edit] Environment Specifics

They prefer a spacious tank with open swimming space as well as hiding places. They do best at lower-end brackish rather than freshwater. Keep them in salt-free water can lead to the Shimmies.

[edit] Behaviour

A generally peaceful fish who has been known to bully other livebearers. Are also known to eat their own fry.

[edit] Identification

Many colour variations of this fish are now available, and they will crossbreed with other Molly species. They are generally elongated, with strong lateral compression. The outstanding feature of this fish is the dorsal fin of the male, which he can extend out like a sail.

[edit] Pictures

[edit] External links

• Fishbase
• The Tropical Tank