Overview

An assortment of ornamental mollies, often hybrids involving several Poecilia species. Most reach 8–12cm; larger sailfin forms can grow further, so the exact variety affects housing.

Scientific name: Poecilia spp.

Behaviour

Keep a group with at least two females per male if sexes are mixed. Males pursue females; dense planting gives them resting space. Allow for frequent fry.

Tank Size

Start with at least 120 litres and a 90 × 35cm base for a small group of short-fin mollies. Sailfin or especially large forms need 200 litres or more and at least 120cm length.

These are adult housing recommendations; choose more space when adding tank mates. Allow for space occupied by substrate and décor when comparing aquarium capacities.

Compatibility

Combine with robust, peaceful fish that tolerate hard, alkaline water. Soft-water tetras are a poor match when mineral requirements differ.

Diet

Offer vegetable-rich flakes or pellets and spirulina food. Allow safe algae grazing and supplement with small frozen foods; avoid a meat-only diet.

Care

• Temperature: 24–28°C
• pH: 7.5–8.5
• General hardness: 15–30 dGH

Hardness is essential; aquarium salt is not a substitute for minerals and need not be routinely added to a freshwater community. Use effective filtration and surface movement. Investigate shimmying or clamped fins by checking water quality and hardness.

Add only to a fully cycled aquarium. Keep ammonia and nitrite at 0mg/l. Start with a 25–30% weekly water change using dechlorinated, temperature-matched water and adjust to test results and stocking. Rinse biological filter media in removed aquarium water rather than under the tap.

Live Animals Are Click and Collect Only. You can order online, choose click and collect, and we will hold your order for collection in store.