Black Molly – Poecilia sphenops – 3 cm

Black Molly

The Black Molly (Poecilia sphenops) is a selectively bred variety particularly appreciated for its intense, uniform black colouration.

Active and sociable, the Molly is a popular freshwater fish that particularly appreciates moderately hard to hard water.

The specimens offered here are approximately 3 cm.

Adult Size

The Black Molly generally reaches around 6 to 8 cm as an adult. Females are usually larger and more robust than males.

Water Parameters

Mollies appreciate moderately hard to hard, slightly alkaline water.

Temperature: 22 to 28 °C
pH: 7 to 8.5
KH: 5 to 15 °dKH
Nitrite: 0 mg/L

Nitrite should remain undetectable. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are important for maintaining good water quality.

What Size Aquarium for Mollies?

Mollies are active fish that appreciate plenty of swimming space. A planted aquarium with open swimming areas is particularly suitable.

For keeping a small group in good conditions over the long term, an aquarium of approximately 80 litres or more provides a more suitable basis.

Behaviour and Compatibility

The Molly is a sociable fish that can be kept with other peaceful species that appreciate similar water conditions.

When males and females are kept together, it is preferable to keep several females for each male to distribute the males' attention between several females.

Feeding

The Molly is omnivorous with an important plant-based component. In the wild, its diet includes algae, biofilm, various micro-organisms and small invertebrates.

In the aquarium, its diet should be varied and can include good-quality pellets or flakes with a suitable plant-based component, occasionally supplemented with small foods such as Artemia or Daphnia.

Breeding

The Molly is a livebearing fish. After fertilisation, the female gives birth directly to free-swimming fry.

Breeding is relatively easy in the aquarium and the population can increase rapidly when males and females are kept together.

As with other poeciliids, females can store sperm and may produce several broods following a single mating.

Origin

Poecilia sphenops is naturally found in Central America and parts of Mexico.

The Black Molly available in the aquarium trade is a selectively bred form developed for its characteristic black colouration.

Lifespan

Mollies generally live for around 3 to 5 years in an aquarium when kept under suitable conditions.

Never Release Mollies into the Wild

Mollies must never be released into a river, pond, lake or any other natural environment.