Tangerine Sailfin Molly

From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer

Poecilia velifera - (Regan, 1914)
Tangerine Sailfin Molly

These peaceful Sailfins need a well-planted tank, with lots of open swimming room. Aaron Norman

[edit] Overview

This fish is found in a number of habitats, ranging from freshwater to brackish and even saltwater.

Family: Poeciliidae

Other common name(s):

Native range:

Habitat: The tank should be well-lit and well-planted on the sides and back with plants that can withstand a small amount of salt (Java fern, Java moss).

Maximum length: 12 cm (5 in)

Minimum aquarium size: 152 L (40 gal)

Water: Freshwater 22 °C (295 K, 72 °F) - 26 °C (299 K, 79 °F)

General swimming level: Midwater to top

[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

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] Breeding/Propagation

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

Sailfins benefit from the addition of some salt, which will not harm most other community fishes. Must have lots of open swimming room or the male’s sailfin will not develop fully.

Reference: 101 Best Tropical Fishes
Image credit: AN
Text credit: KW
Facts about Tangerine Sailfin MollyRDF feed
Common name Tangerine Sailfin Molly  +
Family Poeciliidae  +
Genus Poecilia  +
Image credit AN  +
Maximum length 5 in  +
Minimum aquarium size 40 gal  +
Native range Southeastern Mexico  +
Reference 101 Best Tropical Fishes  +
Specific name velifera  +
Swimming level Midwater to top  +
Text credit KW  +
Water max temp 299 K (26 °C, 79 °F)  +
Water min temp 295 K (22 °C, 72 °F)  +
Water type Freshwater  +