Sailfin Molly

Poecilia latipinna, the Sailfin Molly, is one of the most spectacular livebearers available in the hobby, with males developing a towering dorsal fin that can span the entire length of the body and rivals the finnage of freshwater angelfish. When males spread this sail-like dorsal during courtship, the display is genuinely impressive.

Native to coastal waters of the southeastern USA and Mexico, the Sailfin Molly is naturally found in brackish and marine environments and adapts best in aquariums with hard, alkaline, slightly saline water. It grows larger than the common short-fin molly and requires a correspondingly larger aquarium.

Females are substantially larger than females of other molly species, and a species or large community tank is needed to house them comfortably.

Water: 23–28 °C, pH 7.5–8.5, hard water; 2–4 g/L salt strongly recommended for health and longevity. Tank: 120 L minimum; long tank with open swimming space; males need room to display. Feeding: Algae-based flake essential; supplement with blanched vegetables, spirulina, and quality pellets. Breeding: Prolific; fry are large; remove from adults or provide dense plant cover. Compatibility: Generally peaceful; avoid very small fish that may be harassed; do not keep with soft-water species.