Orange Lyretail Molly

The Orange Lyretail Molly combines the vivid orange colouration of a golden molly strain with the lyretail fin gene, which elongates the upper and lower caudal rays to create a sweeping lyre or swallow-tail shape. Males in peak condition display this elaborate tail in courtship dances, making them particularly attractive.

Lyretail mollies require slightly more careful husbandry than standard-tailed mollies — the extended caudal rays can be damaged by fin-nipping companions, and the fins should be checked regularly for early signs of fin rot, to which all fancy molly varieties are slightly more prone.

The vibrant orange body is best maintained with a carotenoid-rich diet and good water quality. This is a striking and rewarding variety for the attentive keeper.

Water: 23–28 °C, pH 7.5–8.5, hard and slightly saline; excellent water quality essential for lyretail health. Tank: 80 L minimum; no sharp decor; gentle to moderate flow. Feeding: Algae flake, carotenoid colour-enhancing foods, and occasional live/frozen for best condition. Breeding: Prolific; lyretail trait may reduce male mating success; monitor for fin damage. Compatibility: Peaceful; absolutely no fin-nipping species.