The Molly Fish comes from Amazon River basin, Brazil. It is an easy-to-keep, peaceful, live-bearing fish. It can be obtained in a few different colour variations, as well as fin and tail variations. The Molly can be a jumper, so be sure to provide an adequate cover over the aquarium. This fish is very popular with all aquarists, from beginners to advanced.
They are a peaceful bunch most of the time but can show signs of aggression when crowded or surrounded by aggressive tank mates. Therefore, it’s important that their tank is big enough, and that they have suitable tank mates.
You should keep them in groups of at least four or more, they naturally stick together. The group should be made of mostly females since males are known to harass them. Reproduction is usually the only cause of aggressive behaviour.
Sexing these fish isn’t too hard and they are easy to breed. Females have an anal fin that spreads into a fan, whereas a male’s is pointier. Females are usually larger too.
Pregnant females will look even larger. Their bellies swell to be much bigger than other females.
The Molly is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flake foods and algae, as well as frozen bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Ideal tank mates include: Guppies, Platies, Mollies, Some Tetras, Rasboras, Rainbows, Danios, Gouramis, Bristlenose, Plecos and Scavenger Catfish.
Species – Poeciliidae sphenops
Common Name – Balloon Molly
Origin – Amazon River basin, Brazil.
Diet – Omnivorous
PH Range – 6.7 – 8.5
Temperature – Tropical and Coldwater 18°c – 26°c
Breed Type – Livebearer