Poecilia sphenops var.
Also known as: Silver Molly, Common Molly
Origin: Captive bred (originally Mexico and Central America)
The Silver Molly is the standard silver or wild-colour form of Poecilia sphenops that approximates the natural colouration of wild short-fin mollies. The silver to grey body with a subtle iridescent sheen makes it a clean, understated fish that complements more vividly coloured tankmates without competing visually.
Silver Mollies are among the most tolerant and adaptable of all molly varieties and represent an excellent choice for hobbyists wanting a hardy, reliable livebearer that can bridge hard-water and soft-water community setups, though like all mollies they remain healthiest in harder, slightly alkaline conditions.
Males are smaller and slimmer than females, with a pointed gonopodium rather than a fan-shaped anal fin.
Water: 23–28 °C, pH 7.5–8.5, moderate to hard water; adaptable but thrives best in hard water. Tank: 80 L minimum; plants and moderate filtration; standard community setup. Feeding: Omnivore; algae-based flake with vegetable supplement; accepts all standard aquarium foods. Breeding: Very prolific; fry large and easily raised. Compatibility: Excellent community fish; peaceful with all non-aggressive species in appropriate water.
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