Sailfin Molly

[edit] Overview

The Sailfin Molly is larger and more robust than its short-finned relatives. Although the natural color form is quite lovely, with a nice greenish hue, this species has been commercially produced in a number of other color forms, including black, marbled and albino. Like the Black Molly, this fish is found in a number of habitats, ranging from freshwater to brackish and even saltwater.

[edit] Feeding

Omnivore. Provide a vegetable-rich diet, including Spirulina-based flakes, algae wafers and herbivore foods. Also offer frozen, freeze-dried or live meaty foods, such as bloodworms and brine shrimp.

[edit] Aquarium Compatibility

The Sailfin Molly is a peaceful fish that will do well when kept in a group of one male to several females in a community setting with other, slightly larger, peaceful fishes.

[edit] Special Care

Sailfins benefit from the addition of some salt, which will not harm most other community fishes. Add 1/2 tsp. aquarium or sea salt per gallon. (Ordinary table salt, NaCl, is not a good substitute. Sea salt contains a complex array of elements.)

[edit] Breeding/Propagation

The Sailfin Mollies are livebearers that are somewhat more demanding to breed in the aquarium than other livebearers. Females that are not handled properly will drop premature babies.

[edit] Notes

Must have lots of open swimming room or the male’s sailfin will not develop fully.

Category: Species