Molly
Easy carefreshwater
Overview
The molly (Poecilia sphenops) is a popular freshwater aquarium fish native to Mexico and Central America, known for its adaptability to a wide range of water conditions including brackish water.
Water Parameters
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 22–28°C (72–82°F) |
| pH | 7.5–8.5 |
| Adult Size | 8–12 cm (3–5 in) |
| Min Tank | 20 gallons |
| Lifespan | 2–5 years |
Tank Setup
Feeding
Omnivore — flake food, spirulina, blanched vegetables
Compatibility
Breeding
Taxonomic data: Poecilia sphenops Valenciennes, 1846 — GBIF (2026). Wikipedia summary: Molly — CC BY-SA 4.0.
Care parameters cross-referenced with Seriously Fish.
Quick facts & gear
- Min tank size
- 20 gallons
- Temperature
- 22–28°C (72–82°F)
- pH range
- 7.5–8.5
- Adult size
- 8–12 cm (3–5 in)
- Lifespan
- 2–5 years
- Origin
- Member of family Poeciliidae, order Cyprinodontiformes. See species profile for distribution details.
- Diet
- Omnivore —flake foodspirulinablanched vegetables