Care Level: Easy

Temperament: Peaceful

Reef Compatible: Yes

General Description: SW (Saltwater) Mollies are individuals that have been acclimated to marine aquarium water parameters. The assortment of colors are a result of selective breeding from the ancestral wild-type molly (Poecilia sphenops) that comes from Mexico, Venezuela and Colombia. This wild-type ancestor typically inhabited brackish water environments, which is why the Molly can successfully thrive in a complete marine water environment. One of the most adaptable fish in the aquarium trade, mollies are peaceful fish with males exhibiting a clear gonopodium, or modified point, behind their anal fin that aids in reproduction. Depending on the ornamental strain, males will also develop much larger dorsal fins than females. Mollies are livebearers, meaning that females will produce live fry (i.e., offspring) in abundance. It is best to keep multiple females per a single male, as male mollies tend to frequently harass females. These fish are very prolific without intervention, and sperm from males can be stored in females for several months. If you want to avoid your tank filling up with mollies, we advise to stick to purchasing one sex. Mollies can reach a size of approximately 4″, with females averaging on the larger side. Mollies, in a saltwater aquarium, will help to control nuisance algae growth.

Diet Requirements: Mollies are one of the unfussiest aquarium fishes. A diet made up of various high quality vegetable based and protein based flake foods, sinking micro pellet foods and bug bites are ideal, in addition to offering frozen foods such as brine shrimp and other mixed saltwater preparations. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 20 to 30 gallon aquarium is ideal for a group of Mollies. Sizing up may be needed if you intend to have a large group for breeding purposes. While Mollies are relatively hardy and easy to care for, they would do best introduced into a biologically mature saltwater aquarium. The aquarium does not need to be aquascaped with anything in particular to keep Mollies happy. Mollies have been observed to be completely reef safe. Given their peaceful nature, Mollies shouldn’t be introduced into an aquarium with overly aggressive tank mates. Recommended water conditions, 72-82° F, KH 15-30, pH 7.0-8.5.

Purchase Size: Medium: 1” to 2-1/2”

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.