Sailfin molly - Poecilia latipinna

Scientific name: Poecilia latipinna

Common name: Sailfin molly

Family: Poeciliidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 15 cm (3.94 - 5.91 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 20°N (71.43 - 357.14ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 18 - 30 °C (64.4 - 86°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Pseudo-Livebearer

Where the species comes from: Central America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

Although Sailfin mollies are classed as herbivores, they will accept a treat of blood worms. Their staple diet should consist of vegetable matter, quality flake or pellets. The addition of weekly algae wafers to their diet will help condition the fish.

Origin

South and Central America; Sailfin mollies are to be found in fresh, brackish and even saline coastal waters of Texas right down to Mexico.

Sexing

Males will have a modified anal fin called a gonopodium. This resembles a tube at the back of the fish. Females will have no adaptation to their anal fin.

Breeding

The males will fertilize the eggs of the female internally. The females can store the sperm for months but once the eggs are fertilized, gestation is normally 3-4 weeks. The fry will be born live so include some plant life in the tank for them to hide away from predators. The fry will accept crushed flake or brine shrimp.

Lifespan

The expected life span for females is 3 years. The males may only live for 1 year.

Short description

Poecilia latipinna can live in water that has low oxygen content as in their natural habitat they will survive in roadside ditches and shallow pools.This fish has many variants and one of them is called Dalmatian molly.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.