Mollies – Freshwater

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT
fast facts

About Mollies – Freshwater

Aquarium Size
Small to Medium
Difficulty Of Care
Weekly
Group
Freshwater
Size
Small
Suitable Tank Mates
Tetras, Barbs, Rasboras, Swordtails, Mollies, Corydoras Catfish
Swimming Region
Mid-Range
Temperament
Community
Fish Water Condition
Warm, Hard, Neutral pH Water
ADVERTISEMENT

Freshwater Mollies General Description

The fish commonly known as the Molly (Poecilia sphenops) or Mollies, is a freshwater fish that is often grouped in the same category as Swordtails and Guppies because it is a livebearer. These fish remain fairly small, growing to an average size around 3 to 4 inches and they are a very peaceful species which makes them a great addition to the community tank.

Mollies are a freshwater fish commonly known as the Molly.

Origins

The Molly can be found inhabiting freshwater streams and brackish environments in Mexico.

Color

In the wild, Mollies are generally a dull silver color with a sprinkling of black spots. In captivity, however, Mollies have been selectively bred to produce a wide range of colors and patterns including gold, orange, red, green, black, and more. There are also some varieties of Molly which have unique fin and tail shapes such as the Sailfin Molly and the Lyretail Molly.

Maintenance and Care

ADVERTISEMENT

The Molly is a hardy species of fish that adapts well to a variety of different water conditions – it can even survive in brackish conditions. The fact that this species is so adaptable is what makes it very popular as a beginner fish. The ideal conditions for the Molly include warm water with a temperature range between 68°F and 82°F with a pH between 7.0 and 7.8. The water hardness should be between 10 and 25 KH. A tank for Mollies should be decorated with plenty of strong plants as well as rocks, caves, and driftwood for decoration.

The Molly is a hardy species of fish that adapts well to a variety of different water conditions.

Feeding

Mollies are omnivorous fish so they will likely eat anything you offer them. The best diet for Mollies, however, will consist of meaty foods as well as plant matter. Feed your Mollies a combination of high-quality flakes or pellets as well as fresh or frozen foods and algae wafers or fresh vegetables.

Also read:Cost-Cutting Tips and Tricks for Aquarium Enthusiasts

Breeding Info

The Molly is a livebearing species of fish which means that it delivers live young – it does not lay eggs. Not only do Mollies bear live young, but they breed very readily in the home aquarium. Mollies have fast growth rates and large brood numbers so a few Mollies can quickly turn into a large colony.

Aquarium Varieties

The Molly you find in the pet store belong to the same species but they have been selectively bred over hundreds of years to produce different body shapes as well as various tail and fin shapes. Some of the most popular Molly varieties for the home aquarium include the following:

    Photo credit: EuToch/Bigstock; showkontor; Bigstock

    ADVERTISEMENT

    ADVERTISEMENT

    You May Like

    Study Reveals That Cats Really Don’t Need Us

    A recent study says that we need cats more than they need us (*Sniff!). Don''t worry - at least our dogs will always turn to us for the basic necessities.
    Reedfish

    Also referred to as Rope Fish, Dragon Fish and Snake Fish, reedfish are a curious species of fish characterized by their long, snake-like bodies.
    Puggle

    Lively and full of the spunk, the Puggle is a fun-loving little clown. He''ll run around and play like he was a puppy, even after he is well grownup!
    American Shorthair

    The American Shorthair is an easy-going cat that openly displays affection and does well with children and dogs. They do, however, like their quiet time.
    Schillerstovare

    A Swedish breed, the Schillerstovare were developed to exhibit a lively temperament, strong scenting ability, and versatility in the field.
    Tails From A Pet Sitter: Puppy, It’s Cold Outside

    Pet Sitting Pro Rachel Leavy shares her experiences and has some tips on what to expect from your “watchdog” this holiday season While most peopl…
    Doxiepoo

    In general, the Doxiepoo is a well-mannered dog who has no problem being their master''s sole source of affection and attention.
    What Is Giardia In Dogs?

    Does your dog have a belly ache? The cause may be from an intestinal infection called Giardia. Learn more about the parasite behind giardia in dogs.
    Nanday Conure

    If you want a goofy, mischievous pet bird that will brighten up your day with their antics, then the unique Nanday Conure is the ideal choice for you!
    Skypoo

    The affectionate Skypoo brings together the intelligence of the fun-loving Miniature Poodle and the energy of the Skye Terrier for a wonderful family dog.
    Study: When It Comes To Sniffing Out Lies, You Can’t Get Fool A Dog

    Even the best poker face won’t work on your dog – a new study shows that dogs can tell if you’re untrustworthy. While we may feel like the…
    Bog Turtle

    The adorable little Bog Turtle is actually one of the smallest of all the turtle breeds on the planet. It''s also known as the Muhlenberg''s Turtle.
    File This Under Ideas We Love: Pet Food Bank Opens In Toronto

    You know you really love your pet when you’re willing to give up your meal just so your dog has something to eat. But why choose, asked Cara Heitmann?…
    What Is Von Willebrand in Dogs?

    Von Willebrand in dogs occurs because of a deficiency of von Willebrand Factor. It is responsible for blood clotting, a carrier protein for coagulation Factor VIII.
    Help Kickstart AiryVest, the World’s Lightest Dog Vest

    Active dogs don''t want to be weighed down. Outfit your pooch in AiryVest, a fashionable Kickstarter project that claims to be the world''s lightest dog vest.