Sailfin molly
Poecilia latipinna · Poeciliidae
Also known as Giant sailfin molly
Beginner
The molly that really benefits from salt: big dorsal sail, hard water, and constant grazing.
In short: A sailfin molly needs at least 110 L (29 US gal), water at 24–28 °C (75–82 °F) and pH 7.5–8.5. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 4 or more, and rated beginner to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Temperature
- 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
- pH
- 7.5–8.5
- Adult size
- 12 cm (4.7 in)
- Group size
- 4+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Temperature
- 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
- pH
- 7.5–8.5
- Hardness
- 12–30 dGH
- Lifespan
- 3–5 years
- Diet
- Omnivore — algae-based flake, spirulina, blanched veg, frozen foods.
- Care level
- Beginner
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Southeast USA and Mexico coasts
- Water type
- Brackish
- Biotope
- Coastal ditches and estuaries with dense algae
- Natural conditions
- Hard alkaline water; a little marine salt (1.002–1.008) reduces disease.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 4 fish
- Swims
- All levels
- Good tank mates
- PlatySwordtailGlassfishKnight goby
- Avoid
- Soft acidic tanksFin nippers
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Beginner
- Sexing
- Males have a gonopodium and a tall dorsal fin.
- Notes
- Livebearer; broods of 20–80 every few weeks.
- Common ailments
- Shimmies in soft waterIchColumnaris
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