Our Guide To Keeping Sailfin Molly Fish
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Poecilia latipinna
- Common name: Sailfin Molly
- Family: Poeciliidae
- Origin: Coastal brackish and marine waters of North and Central America
- Adult length: 5 to 15 cm
- Lifespan: 3 to 5 years
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Tank Setup:
- Sailfin Mollies prefer a spacious tank with plenty of swimming space. A minimum tank size of 75 litres is recommended for a small group of these fish.
- Provide ample hiding places and areas with dense vegetation to mimic their natural habitat. They appreciate plants like Java Moss, Hornwort, and Vallisneria.
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Water Parameters:
- Sailfin Mollies thrive in slightly alkaline to brackish water conditions with a pH range of 7.5 to 8.5.
- Keep the water temperature between 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F).
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- A moderate water flow is suitable for these fish, so choose a filter that provides gentle to moderate flow.
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Diet:
- Sailfin Mollies are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food as a staple.
- Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and algae-based foods to provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet.
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Tank mates:
- Sailfin Mollies are peaceful community fish and can be kept with other peaceful species such as other mollies, platies, swordtails, and peaceful tetras.
- Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish species that may intimidate or harass them.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Sailfin Mollies are active swimmers and display social behavior, especially in groups.
- They are generally peaceful but may exhibit some territorial behavior, especially during breeding.