Molly (Poecilia sphenops)

Going by the scientific name poecilia sphenops, and the common name molly, this type of fish as regarded to be an easy going beginner fish. It comes in 32 known species which have a range of fins. It can easily and cheaply be bought at a local fish store. It is difficult to place the molly. It has numerous muddled varieties and colors that will get you confused easily. It feeds on live plants and algae or specially made food available in pet stores. The molly spends most of its time looking for food among various plants.

The fish lives in fresh water and occasionally spends time in brackish water before swimming back to fresh water. Nevertheless, you will also find the fish surviving in almost full seawater. The males can grow up to 4 inches while the female can grow up to 6 inches depending on the species. It is easy to tell the female and male mollies once they have reached sexual maturity (normally at 8 weeks old). Typically, the female’s anal fin is shaped like a fan while that of the male is shaped like sticks making it appear straight and thick. They have a lifespan of 3- 5 years depending on their environment. Mollies live under temperatures between 70-80 degrees F. Unlike most fish, the molly does not lay eggs. Instead, it gives birth to live tiny fry.

They produce very fast and as a way of naturally controlling their population, the parents will occasionally feed on the newly born. Mollies are generally peaceful and unique, in that they set up a hierarchy division. Each molly has its level of importance and which it lives and dies by.

If you decide to keep a molly, remember to get the water to the right temperature. You may also have to add a bit of salt to their water as they have over time adapted living in salty water. Also give them enough food as they are great feeders.