Gold Dust Molly

The Gold Dust Molly is a captive strain of Poecilia sphenops in which a warm orange-gold base colouration is overlaid with fine black speckling across the body, creating the impression of gold dust or metallic flecking. The speckle density can vary and in heavily marked individuals covers nearly the entire body.

This variety is slightly rarer in the trade than black or dalmatian mollies, making it a more distinctive option for community aquariums. The warm gold tones complement a wide range of other fish and aquascape styles.

All standard molly care applies — Gold Dust Mollies thrive in hard, slightly saline, alkaline water with an algae-inclusive diet.

Water: 23–28 °C, pH 7.5–8.5, hard and slightly saline; poor in soft acidic conditions. Tank: 80 L minimum; standard molly setup with plants and moderate swimming space. Feeding: Algae flake essential; supplement with quality pellets, vegetables, and occasional live/frozen. Breeding: Very prolific; gold and speckle patterns variable in fry. Compatibility: Peaceful community fish; avoid soft-water species.