Brackish Fish :
Brackish fish originate from areas in which freshwater meets saltwater. Fish that live in these areas are able to tolerate a wide range of salinities. Brackish fish do best in water with a salinity of 1.015, or 1/4 cup marine salt per gallon, and a pH of 7.5 to 8.4.
1-Figure 8 Puffer
Tetraodon biocellatus
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Aggressive
Water Conditions: 75-82° F, KH 8-15, pH 7.0-8.0
Max. Size: 3"
Color Form: Green, Tan, White, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Origin: Asia
Family: Tetraodontidae
The Figure 8 Puffer is dark brown to green on the back with a white underside. These fish have many yellow lines and spots covering the backside of the fish, giving it an interesting look. Also there are a few black spots that are outlined in yellow on the tail, body and nose.
The ideal aquarium will have brackish water with many plants (either real or plastic), rocks with plenty of hiding places, and a sandy bottom composed of an aragonite-based sand. The Figure 8 Puffer can be aggressive to members of its own species, so care should be taken when housed together.
Spawning occurs in brackish water. The eggs will be laid on the bottom, either on the substrate or on a flat rock. After the eggs are fertilized, the male will stay behind to guard them for approximately 7 days until the fry become waterborne.
The Figure 8 Puffer should be fed crustacean foods such as brine shrimp, krill, mollusks, and earthworms.
Approximate Purchase Size: 3/4" to 1 1/4"
2-Mono Argentus
Monodactylus argenteus
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Water Conditions: 75-82° F, KH 8-12, pH 7.2-8.4
Max. Size: 10"
Color Form: White
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Thailand
Family: Monodactylidae
The Mono Argentus, also known as a Mono or Fingerfish, comes from the coastal and inland waters of Africa and Asia. The Mono Argentus is a diamond-shaped, silver in color, and has two black stripes on the front half of the fish. The dorsal fin has a yellow tint with a black outline.
The Mono Argentus grows very large and requires an aquarium of at least 50 gallons. The smaller specimens can be kept in freshwater, but as they grow and mature, the water should gradually be converted to a higher salinity. A substrate consisting of aragonite sand or gravel is preferred. Provide plants and rocks that thrive in brackish water.
The Mono Argentus spawns in the saltwater of the ocean, but the difference between the sexes and their breeding habits are unknown. Gradual change from brackish to saltwater will maximize the coloration and health of the fish as they become older.
In the wild, the Mono eats large amounts of vegetable matter. Provide them with dried seaweed, lettuce, brine shrimp, and a quality flake food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 3/4" to 1-1/2"; Medium: 1-1/2" to 2-1/2"
3-Mono Sebae
Monodactylus sebae
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Water Conditions: 75-82° F, KH 8-12, pH 7.2-8.4
Max. Size: 8"
Color Form: Black, White
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Coastal West Africa
Family: Monodactylidae
The Mono Sebae is also known as the African Moony and comes from the estuaries and mangroves of the waters of West Africa. It is diamond shaped with a larger anal fin than the Mono Argentus. The Mono Sebae is silver with a black line covering the eyes and a line from the tip of the dorsal fin to the tip of the anal fin.
The Mono Sebae grows very large and requires an aquarium of at least 125 gallons. The smaller specimens can be kept in freshwater, but as they grow and mature, the water should gradually be converted to a higher salinity. A substrate consisting of aragonite sand or gravel is preferred. Provide plants and rocks that thrive in brackish water.
It is known that the Mono Sebae spawns in the saltwater of the ocean, but the difference between the sexes and their breeding habits are unknown. Gradual change from brackish to saltwater will maximize the coloration and the health of the fish as they become older.
In the wild, the Mono Sebae eats large amounts of vegetable matter. Provide them with dried seaweed, lettuce, brine shrimp, and a quality flake food.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1-1/2" to 2-1/2"
4-Green Scat
Scatophagus argus
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Lighting: Moderate
Water Conditions: 68-82° F, KH 8-12, pH 7.5-8.4
Max. Size: 1'
Color Form: Tan, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Indo-Pacific
Family: Scatophagidae
The Green Scat is bronze to brown with dark green to black spots covering the entire body. As the Green Scat matures, it takes on a humpback appearance and the spots on the body become darker.
The Green Scat requires an aquarium of at least 125 gallons with plenty of plants and hiding places. They do best in brackish water with 3-4 teaspoons of salt per 2-1/2 gallons of water. It is important to choose live plants that thrive in brackish water.
The Green Scat spawns in the saltwater of the ocean, but the difference between the sexes and their breeding habits are unknown. Gradual change from brackish to saltwater will maximize the coloration and the health of the fish as they become older.
The Scat should be fed mainly vegetable based foods with meaty foods offered on occasion. Feed dried seaweed, lettuce, algae, quality flake food and occasionally brine shrimp.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1" to 2"
5-Ruby Scat
Scatophagus argus
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 68-82° F, KH 8-12
Max. Size: 1'
Color Form: Tan, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Singapore, Thailand
Family: Scatophagidae
The Ruby Scat is bronze to brown with flecks of red over the body. As the Ruby Scat matures, it takes on a humpback appearance and the spots on the body become darker.
The Ruby Scat requires an aquarium of at least 125 gallons with plenty of plants and hiding places. They do best in a brackish water with 3-4 teaspoons of salt per 2.5 gallons of water. It is important to choose live plants that thrive in the brackish water.
The Ruby Scat spawns in the saltwater of the ocean, but the difference between the sexes and their breeding habits are unknown. Gradual change from brackish to saltwater will maximize the coloration and health of the fish as they become older.
The Ruby Scat should be fed mainly vegetable-based foods with meaty foods offered on occasion. Feed dried seaweed, lettuce, algae, a quality flake food and occassionally brine shrimp.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1" to 2"
6-Archer Fish
Toxotes jaculatrix
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 68-82° F, KH 9-19, pH 7.0-8.0
Max. Size: 1'
Color Form: Black, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Asia
Family: Toxotidae
The Archer Fish is also known as the Banded Archer Fish and comes from small rivers and streams across Asia. It has a triangular shaped body that is primarily silver in color. Many elongated spots adorn the side of these fish, as well as black and yellow markings on the dorsal and anal fins. These fish have the remarkable ability to spit water at insects above the water, with amazing accuracy. Even more remarkable is the ability to compensate for the visual distortion that the water's surface causes. It is reported that these fish can spit at a target as far as 5 feet away!
The ideal set up for Archer Fish is an aquarium of at least 100 gallons with a tight fitting canopy, as these fish are jumpers. Provide plenty of plants that do not encroach the surface giving them plenty of swimming room at the top of the aquarium. Also, it is ideal to keep the water level of the aquarium a few inches below the top giving them room to practice their hunting. These fish prosper in either fresh or brackish water.
Little success has been had with breeding these species in captivity.
Feed the Archer Fish a variety of meaty items including; live insects, mealworms, and freeze dried plankton. Supplement these meaty items with dried seaweed fed at the surface using a lettuce clip.
Ideal tank mates include: Puffers, Scats, Monos, other Archers, and other Brackish water fish.
Approximate Purchase Size: 2-1/2" to 4"
7-Columbian Shark
Arius jordani
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 74-79° F, KH 10-12, pH 7.0-7.5
Max. Size: 10"
Color Form: White, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Central America, North America, South America
Family: Ariidae
Also known as the Black Fin Shark, the Columbian Shark is a catfish which will grow quite large in an aquarium. It may also be referred to as Jordan's Catfish or the West American Cat Shark. The Columbian Shark has a high fin and long "whiskers" that gives it a classic catfish appearance.
Setting up a tank to match its natural environment will require plenty of plants and rocks. Since it grows quite large, starting with a minimum tank size of 70 gallons is recommended. As the Columbian Shark grows larger, there is a chance that the shark will eat smaller tank mates. This species prefers some aquarium salt in the water, and may also be acclimated slowly into a saltwater aquarium, as they live in both freshwater and saltwater during different times of their life.
The female Columbian Shark will lay the eggs and the male will incubate them in his mouth to protect them.
Feed this fish sinking catfish pellets, bloodworms, or a high quality algae food.
Approximate Purchase Size: 2" to 4"
8-Bumble Bee Goby
Brachygobius doriae
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 72-84° F, KH 9-19, pH 8.0-8.2
Max. Size: 1½"
Color Form: Black, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Origin: Southeast Asia
Family: Gobiidae
The Bumblebee Goby is a small, relatively peaceful fish that does not tolerate intrusion into its territory. It features a long thin body that is black with yellow stripes.
The ideal set-up is an aquarium with brackish water and plenty of plants and rocks providing the Gobies with ample hiding places. Although they do well in a community setting, they will thrive the best in the company of only their own species.
Even though they live in the brackish water, the addition of freshwater will induce spawning. The female will lay the eggs in the substrate beneath a root or rock where the male will fertilize them. After fertilization, the male will guard the eggs for approximately four days until the fry become waterborne.
The Bumblebee Goby requires a diet rich in small, live foods such as tubifex worms, bloodworms, brine shrimp and daphnia.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1/2" to 1"
9-Prehistoric Dragon Goby
Gobioides broussonnetii
Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Water Conditions: 72-82° F, KH 10-20, pH 7.5-8.0
Max. Size: 1' 3"
Color Form: Blue, Purple
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Central America, South America
Family: Gobiidae
The Prehistoric Dragon Goby, also called the Dragon Goby, Eel Goby, Peruvian Goby, or Violet Goby is a brackish water to fresh water fish from South and Central America. The prehistoric Dragon Goby has a long slender body much like an eel with purplish lavender body color.
The Prehistoric Dragon Goby is ideally kept in a 50-gallon or larger aquarium decorated with plenty of rocks, plants, and caves in order to provide adequate hiding places for this typically timid fish. They prefer hard water with an alkalinity of 10 to 20 dKH and a pH of 7.5 to 8.0. In order to maintain these conditions, it is best to provide a substrate consisting of aragonite. The aragonite substrate can be mixed with darker gravel to reduce glare from the lighting.
Although no external differences are known between male and female, if trying to breed the Prehistoric Dragon Gobies, spawning groups of 1 male to at least 3 females is recommended. The male will spawn with several females over the course of a day. Females should be removed immediately after spawning and the male will guard the eggs. After 36-48 hours, the fry hatch and the male should be removed. After the egg sacs are absorbed, the fry can be fed rotifers and "green water" containing algae. After a month, Artemia nauplii can be fed.
The Prehistoric Dragon Goby should be given a varied diet consisting of frozen and freeze-dried foods. In nature this species is an opportunistic scavenger and feeds on small organisms in the substrate, by sifting mud in its mouth.
Approximate Purchase Size: 4" to 6"
10-Black Sailfin Molly
Poecilia latipinna
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 75-82° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.5-8.5
Max. Size: 6½"
Color Form: Black
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Yucatan
Family: Poeciliidae
The Black Sailfin Molly, is also called the Mexican Sailfin Molly, Giant Sailfin Molly, and sometimes simply the Sailfin Molly, is a very hardy black color variation of thePoecilia latipinna, Sailfin Molly. They are a peaceful fish and prefer hard water. Mollies have the ability to adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium. With a gradual acclimation, these fish may be maintained in either a freshwater or saltwater aquarium. In the freshwater aquarium, a minimum of a teaspoon of aquarium salt per gallon is recommended for optimum health.
The Black Sailfin Molly requires a tank of at least 30 gallons with algae and plenty of room to swim. The tall dorsal fin of the male will not develop if adequate room is not provided for him to swim. This species should only share a tank with other peaceful fish that prefer hard water with elevated salt levels.
The pointed anal fin and much larger dorsal fin on the male, and the rounded anal fin and pregnancy spot on the female differentiate the two. The Black Sailfin Molly is a livebearer that requires a spawning box in a large 25 gallon, or larger breeding tank. The aquarium should be planted as densely as possible or have a thick algae mat. Having a group of floating plants in the corner of the aquarium will promote rearing outside of the breeding tank. Every 60-70 days the female will give birth to 10-60 young that are already approximately one-half inch long.
The Black Sailfin Molly is omnivorous and requires both meaty foods as well as algae. Provide these fish with an algae-based flake food, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
The Black Sailfin Molly is sold per pair.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1-1/2" to 2-1/2"
11-Black Lyretail Molly
Poecilia latipinna
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 68-82° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.0-7.8
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Black
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Farm Raised, Singapore
Family: Poeciliidae
The Black Lyretail Molly is a hybrid variation of Poecilia latipinna, the Sailfin Molly. The Black Lyretail Molly is black with white highlights on its fins, and has a somewhat lyre-shaped caudal fin. Mollies have the ability to adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium. With a gradual acclimation, these fish may be maintained in either a freshwater or saltwater aquarium. In the freshwater aquarium, a teaspoon of aquarium salt per gallon is recommended for optimum health.
The Black Lyretail Molly prefers a tank of at least 30 gallons with plenty of strong plants such as Java Fern,Sagittaria, Vallisneria,and Anubias. They require a good filtration system because of their hearty appetites and resulting waste products. The Black Lyretail Molly is well suited for the community tank because of its peaceful nature, and is compatible with other peaceful, large fish that can withstand similar water conditions.
The pointed anal fin and much larger dorsal fin on the male, and the rounded anal fin and pregnancy spot on the female differentiate the two. The Black Lyretail Molly is a livebearer that requires a spawning box in a 25 gallon, or larger breeding tank. The aquarium should be planted as densely as possible or have a thick algae mat. Having a group of floating plants in the corner of the aquarium will promote rearing outside of the breeding tank. Every 60-70 days the female give birth to 10-60 young that are already approximately one-half inch long.
The Black Lyretail Molly is omnivorous and that prefers both meaty foods as well as algae. Provide these fish with an algae-based flake food, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1" to 1-1/2"
12-Fan Dance Goby
Stigmatogobius sadanundio
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 74-79° F, KH 9-19, pH 7.0-8.0
Max. Size: 3½"
Color Form: Black, Blue, Clear, Red, White
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Asia
Family: Gobiidae
The Fan Dance Goby is from Asia and is also known as the Knight Goby. It is a bottom dwelling fish that has the typical goby appearance with a blunt rounded nose. The coloration of this goby is mostly silver with many black dots covering the body and fins. The fins are very full and dramatic and lend this fish its common name, Fan Dance.
Setting up an aquarium to match its natural environment will require plenty of plants and rocks. It can be kept in both fresh and brackish water, and tends to do better with some salt in the aquarium water. It is a shy fish that will appreciate both live and artificial plants that it will use for hiding. If live plants are to be used, choose a variety that will handle the increased levels of salt in the water.
The males of this species have larger fins while the females are smaller and colored light yellow. These gobies will spawn on the roof of caves or flowerpots, and the male will stay with the eggs in order to guard them.
Feed the Fan Dance Goby a quality flake food and meaty items such as brine shrimp, bloodworms or tubiflex worms.
Ideal tank mates include: Brackish Water Fish, or Rainbowfish, Gouramis, Barbs, Livebearers, South American Cichlids, Danios, Plecos, and other scavenger Catfish.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1-3/4" to 3"
13-Dalmatian Molly
Poecilia latipinna
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 68-82° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.0-7.8
Max. Size: 4¾"
Color Form: Assorted, Black
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: east coast of Florida, Gulf of Mexico, North Carolina
Family: Poeciliidae
The Dalmatian Molly is a hybrid color variation of Poecilia latipinna, the Sailfin Molly. The Dalmatian Molly has a black and white body, and is sometimes referred to as the Marbled Molly or Marbled Sailfin Molly. Mollies have the ability to adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium. With a gradual acclimation, these fish may be maintained in either a freshwater aquarium or a saltwater aquarium. In the freshwater aquarium, a teaspoon of aquarium salt per gallon is recommended for optimum health.
The Dalmatian Molly prefers a tank of at least 30 gallons, densely planted with plenty of strong plants such as Java fern, Sagittaria, Vallisneria and Anubias. They require a good filtration system because of their hearty appetites. The Dalmatian Molly is well suited for the community tank because of its peaceful nature, and is compatible with other peaceful, large fish that can withstand hard water. They may pursue their young and the young of the other fish.
The pointed anal fin and much larger dorsal fin on the male, and the rounded anal fin and pregnancy spot on the female differentiate the two. The Dalmatian Molly is a livebearer that requires a spawning box in a large 25 gallon, or larger breeding tank. The aquarium should be planted as densely as possible or have a thick algae mat. Having a group of floating plants in the corner of the aquarium will promote rearing outside of the breeding tank. Every 60-70 days the female will give birth to 10-60 young that are already approximately one-half inch long.
The Dalmatian is omnivorous and requires algae. Provide these fish with an algae-based flake food, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1-1/2" to 2 1/2"
14- Platinum Lyretail Molly
Poecilia velifera
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 75-82° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.5-8.5
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: White, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Yucatan
Family: Poeciliidae
The Platinum Lyretail Molly, also called the Mexican Lyretail Molly, Giant Lyretail Molly, Yucatan Molly, and sometimes simply Lyretail Molly, is a hybrid color variation of the Poecilia velifera, Lyretail Molly. They are a platinum/gold-colored fish that are peaceful and prefer hard water. Mollies have the ability to adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium. With a gradual acclimation, these fish may be maintained in either a freshwater or saltwater aquarium. In the freshwater aquarium, a minimum of a teaspoon of aquarium salt per gallon is recommended for optimum health.
The Platinum Lyretail Molly requires a tank of at least 30 gallons with algae and plenty of room to swim. The tall dorsal fin of the male will not develop if adequate room is not provided for him to swim. This species should only share a tank with other peaceful fish that prefer hard water with elevated salt levels.
The pointed anal fin and much larger dorsal fin on the male, and the rounded anal fin and pregnancy spot on the female differentiate the two. The Platinum Lyretail Molly is a livebearer that requires a spawning box in a 25 gallon, or larger breeding tank. The tank should be planted as densely as possible or have a thick algae mat. Having a group of floating plants in the corner of your tank will promote rearing outside of the breeding tank. Every 60-70 days the female will give birth to 10-60 young that are already approximately one-half inch long.
The Platinum Lyretail Molly is omnivorous and requires both meaty foods as well as algae. Provide these fish with an algae-based flake food, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1-1/2" to 2-1/2"
15-Balloon Molly
Poecilia latipinna
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 68-82° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.0-7.8
Max. Size: 3"
Color Form: Black, White, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: east coast of Florida, Gulf of Mexico, North Carolina
Family: Poeciliidae
The Balloon Molly is a hybrid variation of Poecilia latipinna,the Sailfin Molly. The Balloon Molly has an arched back and a rounded, large belly. Color varieties include a combination of black, yellow, and white. These fish also have a large, lyre-shaped caudal fin and an impressive dorsal fin. Mollies have the ability to adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium. With a gradual acclimation, these fish may be maintained in either a freshwater aquarium or a saltwater aquarium. In the freshwater aquarium, a teaspoon of aquarium salt per gallon is recommended for optimum health.
The Balloon Molly prefers a tank of at least 30 gallons with lots of strong plants such as Java fern, Sagittaria,Vallisneria and Anubias. They require a good filtration system because of their hearty appetites. The Balloon Molly is well suited for the community tank because of its peaceful nature, and is compatible with other peaceful, large fish that can withstand similar water conditions. They may pursue their young and the young of other fish.
The pointed anal fin and much larger dorsal fin on the male, and the rounded anal fin and pregnancy spot on the female differentiate the two. The Balloon Molly is a livebearer that requires a spawning box in a 25 gallon, or larger breeding tank. The aquarium should be planted as densely as possible or have a thick algae mat. Having a group of floating plants in the corner of the aquarium will promote rearing outside of the breeding tank. Every 60-70 days the female give birth to 10-60 young that are already approximately one-half inch long.
The Balloon Molly is omnivorous and requires both meaty foods as well as algae. Provide these fish with an algae-based flake food, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1" to 1 1/2"
16-Black Molly
Poecilia latipinna
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 68-82° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.0-7.8
Max. Size: 3"
Color Form: Black
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Farm Raised, Singapore
Family: Poeciliidae
The Black Molly is a short-finned hybrid variation ofPoecilia latipinna, the Sailfin Molly. The Black Molly is all black in coloration with short fins. They may have patches of a slight gold or silver coloration when a juvenile, but will outgrow this with age. Mollies have the ability to adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium. With a gradual acclimation, these fish may be maintained in either a freshwater or saltwater aquarium. In the freshwater aquarium, a teaspoon of aquarium salt per gallon is recommended for optimum health.
The Black Molly prefers a tank of at least 30 gallons with plenty of strong plants such as Java Fern, Sagittaria, Vallisneria, and Anubias. They require a good filtration system because of their hearty appetites and resulting waste products. The Black Molly is well suited for the community tank because of its peaceful nature, and is compatible with other peaceful, large fish that can withstand similar water conditions.
The pointed anal fin and much larger dorsal fin on the male, and the rounded anal fin and pregnancy spot on the female differentiate the two. The Black Molly is a livebearer that requires a spawning box in a 25 gallon, or larger breeding tank. The aquarium should be planted as densely as possible or have a thick algae mat. Having a group of floating plants in the corner of the aquarium will promote rearing outside of the breeding tank. Every 60-70 days the female give birth to 10-60 young that are already approximately one-half inch long.
The Black Molly is omnivorous and that prefers both meaty foods as well as algae. Provide these fish with an algae-based flake food, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Approximate Purchase Size: Medium; 1" to 1 1/2" Large; 1 1/2" to 2"
17-Golden Sailfin Molly
Poecilia latipinna
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 68-82° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.0-8.0
Max. Size: 6"
Color Form: Orange, Yellow
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Captive-Bred - Asia
Family: Poeciliidae
Add peaceful grace to your home aquarium with these gorgeous Golden Sailfin Mollies. Like other members of thePoecilia genus, this fish is particularly suited for community aquariums with hard water. Known as a peaceful fish, it makes the perfect addition to any community aquarium with tankmates of similar temperament.
Native to fresh and brackish coastal waters of North America, Sailfin Mollies are commonly found in shallow waters along marshes, streams, ponds, and swamps. In the home aquarium, they should be kept in well-planted systems with open swimming areas and plenty of hiding locations among plants for pregnant females.
Distinguishing sexes is fairly easy by sight. Males have genitalia in front of the anal fin and distinctly larger dorsal fins. A livebearing species, females give birth to between 10 and 150 fry after a short gestation period. Once birthed, parents do not care for their young.
Classified as omnivores, feed Sailfin Mollies a diet rich in plant material, including algae wafers. If not fed sufficiently, Sailfin Mollies may turn to your aquatic plants for nourishment, so care needs to be taken with these sometimes voracious eaters. Occasional feedings of frozen mosquito larvae or other aquatic invertebrates is also beneficial.
Approximate Purchase Size: 2-1/2" - 3-1/2"
18-Marble Lyretail Molly
Poecilia sphenops
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 68-82° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.0-8.0
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Black, White
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Farm Raised - USA
Family: Poeciliidae
The Marble Lyretail Molly, also called the Mexican Lyretail Molly, Giant Lyretail Molly, Yucatan Molly, and sometimes simply Lyretail Molly, is a color variety of the Poecilia sphenops Lyretail Molly. It is a handsome black and white fish that makes a peaceful addition to most aquariums. The Marble Lyretail Molly prefers hard, alkaline water conditions and may not thrive in aquariums with acidic or soft water. The Marble Lyretail Molly has the ability to adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium. Through gradual acclimation, the Marble Lyretail Molly may be maintained in either a freshwater or saltwater aquarium. In the freshwater aquarium, a minimum of a teaspoon of aquarium salt per gallon is recommended for optimum health.
The Marble Lyretail Molly requires an aquarium of at least 30 gallons with algae and plenty of room to swim. The tall dorsal fin of the male will not develop if adequate room is not provided for him to swim. Marble Lyretail Molly should only share an aquarium with other peaceful fish that prefer hard water with elevated salt levels.
The male Marble Lyretail Molly has a pointed anal fin and a much larger dorsal fin. In contrast, the female Marble Lyretail Molly has a rounded anal fin and a pregnancy spot. The Marble Lyretail Molly is a livebearer that requires a spawning box in a 25 gallon, or larger breeding tank. The aquarium should be planted densely as possible or have a thick algae mat. Having a group of floating plants in the corner of your aquarium will promote rearing outside of the breeding tank. Every 60-70 days the female will give birth to 10-60 young that are already approximately one-half inch long.
The Marble Lyretail Molly is omnivorous and requires both meaty foods as well as algae. Provide the Marble Lyretail Molly an algae-based flake food, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1" to 1-1/2"
19-Harlequin Sailfin Molly
Poecilia latipinna
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 68-82° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.0-8.0
Max. Size: 6"
Color Form: Black, Gold
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Asia, Farm Raised
Family: Poeciliidae
Scatter-speckled with gold, black, and white patches, these Harlequin Sailfin Mollies are sure to dazzle. Like other members of the Poecilia genus, this fish is particularly suited for community aquariums with hard water. Known as a peaceful fish, it makes the perfect addition to any community aquarium with tankmates of similar temperament.
Native to fresh and brackish coastal waters of North America, Sailfin Mollies are commonly found in shallow waters along marshes, streams, ponds, and swamps. In the home aquarium, they should be kept in well-plantedsystems with open swimming areas and plenty of hiding locations among plants for pregnant females.
Distinguishing sexes is fairly easy by sight. Males have genitalia in front of the anal fin and distinctly larger dorsal fins. A livebearing species, females give birth to between 10 and 150 fry after a short gestation period. Once birthed, parents do not care for their young.
Classified as omnivores, feed Sailfin Mollies a diet rich in plant material, including algae wafers. If not fed sufficiently, Sailfin Mollies may turn to your aquatic plants for nourishment, so care needs to be taken with these sometimes voracious eaters. Occasional feedings offrozen mosquito larvae or other aquatic invertebrates is also beneficial.
Approximate Purchase Size: 2-1/2" - 3"
20-Gold Dust Molly
Poecilia sphenops
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 68-82° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.0-8.0
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Gold
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Malaysia
Family: Poeciliidae
The Gold Dust Molly is perfect for hobbyists who love the Black Molly but want a fish with color. This variety of the short-finned Poecilia sphenops Molly has an interesting color scheme of black and gold that accentuates it's playful and energetic behavior. The colorful and lively Gold Dust Molly makes a peaceful addition to most aquariums.
The Gold Dust Molly prefers hard, alkaline water conditions and may not thrive in aquariums with acidic or soft water. The Gold Dust Molly has the ability to adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium. Through gradual acclimation, the Gold Dust Molly may be maintained in either a freshwater or saltwater aquarium. In the freshwater aquarium, a minimum of a teaspoon of aquarium salt per gallon is recommended for optimum health.
The Gold Dust Molly requires an aquarium of at least 30 gallons with algae and plenty of room to swim. The Gold Dust Molly should only share an aquarium with other peaceful fish that prefer hard water with elevated salt levels.
The male Gold Dust Molly is more slender and has a gonopodium. In contrast, the female Gold Dust Molly is more rounded in shape and develops a pregnancy spot. The Gold Dust Molly is a livebearer that requires aspawning box in a 25 gallon, or larger breeding tank. The aquarium should be planted densely as possible or have a thick algae mat. Having a group of floating plants in the corner of your aquarium will promote rearing outside of the breeding tank. Every 60-70 days the female will give birth to 10-60 young that are already approximately one-half inch long.
The Gold Dust Molly is an omnivore that requires both meaty foods as well as algae. Provide the Gold Dust Molly an algae-based flake food, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1" to 1-1/2".
21-Gold Doubloon Molly
Poecilia latipinna
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 68-82° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.0-8.0
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Black, Gold
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Farm Raised
Family: Poeciliidae
The Gold Doubloon Molly is perfect for hobbyists who love the marbled coloration of the Harlequin Sailfin Molly, but without all the dorsal flair. This variety of the short-finnedPoecilia latipinna Molly has an interesting color scheme of black and gold that accentuates its playful and energetic behavior. The colorful and lively Gold Doubloon Molly makes a peaceful addition to most aquariums.
The Gold Doubloon Molly prefers hard, alkaline water conditions and may not thrive in aquariums with acidic or soft water. The Gold Doubloon Molly has the ability to adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium. Through gradual acclimation, the Gold Doubloon Molly may be maintained in either a freshwater or saltwater aquarium. In the freshwater aquarium, a minimum of a teaspoon of aquarium salt per gallon is recommended for optimum health.
The Gold Doubloon Molly requires an aquarium of at least 30 gallons with algae and plenty of room to swim. The Gold Doubloon Molly should only share an aquarium with other peaceful fish that prefer hard water with elevated salt levels.
The male Gold Doubloon Molly is more slender and has a gonopodium. In contrast, the female Gold Doubloon Molly is more rounded in shape and develops a pregnancy spot. The Gold Doubloon Molly is a livebearer that requires aspawning box in a 25 gallon, or larger breeding tank. The aquarium should be planted densely as possible or have a thick algae mat. Having a group of floating plants in the corner of your aquarium will promote rearing outside of the breeding tank. Every 60-70 days the female will give birth to 10-60 young that are already approximately one-half inch long.
The Gold Doubloon Molly is an omnivore that requires both meaty foods as well as algae. Provide the Gold Doubloon Molly an algae-based flake food, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1-1/4" to 2-1/2"
22-Dalmation Lyretail Molly
Poecilia latipinna
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 68-82° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.0-7.8
Max. Size: 4¾"
Color Form: Assorted, Black
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: east coast of Florida, Gulf of Mexico, North Carolina
Family: Poeciliidae
The Dalmatian Lyretail Molly is a hybrid color variation ofPoecilia latipinna, the Sailfin Molly. The Dalmatian Molly has a black and white body, with a somewhat lyre-shaped caudal fin and is sometimes referred to as the Marbled Molly or Marbled Sailfin Molly. Mollies have the ability to adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium. With a gradual acclimation, these fish may be maintained in either a freshwater aquarium or a saltwater aquarium. In the freshwater aquarium, a teaspoon of aquarium salt per gallon is recommended for optimum health.
The Dalmatian Lyretail Molly prefers a tank of at least 30 gallons, densely planted with plenty of strong plants such as Java fern, Sagittaria, Vallisneria and Anubias. They require a good filtration system because of their hearty appetites. The Dalmatian Lyretail Molly is well suited for the community tank because of its peaceful nature, and is compatible with other peaceful, large fish that can withstand hard water. They may pursue their young and the young of the other fish.
The pointed anal fin and much larger dorsal fin on the male, and the rounded anal fin and pregnancy spot on the female differentiate the two. The Dalmatian Lyretail Molly is a livebearer that requires a spawning box in a large 25 gallon, or larger breeding tank. The aquarium should be planted as densely as possible or have a thick algae mat. Having a group of floating plants in the corner of the aquarium will promote rearing outside of the breeding tank. Every 60-70 days the female will give birth to 10-60 young that are already approximately one-half inch long.
The Dalmatian is omnivorous and requires algae. Provide these fish with an algae-based flake food, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1" to 1- 1/2"; Large: 1-1/2” to 2-1/2”
