Dalmatian Lyretail Molly (Poecilia latipinna)

Family: Poeciliidae

Dalmatian Lyretail Molly — a Poeciliidae from N America, introduced widely, peaceful, hardy and constantly reproducing. Reaches 11.2–16.5 cm; one male to two or three females spreads the attention. 20–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
20–28 °C
pH
7.5–8.2
GH hardness
11–30 dGH
Adult length
11.2–16.5 cm
Minimum tank
327 L
Water layer
Middle of the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful, hardy and constantly reproducing
Origin
N America, introduced widely

Species overview

Poeciliidae species Poecilia latipinna comes from N America, introduced widely. Hardy, productive and unpretentious — the gateway fish that still deserves decent water. It swims in mid-water. Adults reach 11.2–16.5 cm. One male to two or three females spreads the attention. Stable warm water, floating plants and regular small feeds cover 90% of its needs. Maintain 20–28 °C at pH 7.5–8.2. Best suited to a keeper who can match its natural water.

Native biotope

Habitat
Warm freshwater streams and lakes
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate oxygen levels

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine sand and gravel
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones
Plants
Hardy common aquarium plants

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
One male to two or three females spreads the attention
Diet
Omnivorous surface-picker; varied diet keeps colour bright
Recommended tankmates
  • Other peaceful community fish — Ignore the endless fry
Avoid keeping with
  • Fin-nippers — Constant harassment exhausts females

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Subtle external differences
Breeding method
Gives birth to free-swimming fry; dense plants raise survival