Easy Steps to Keep Your Mollies Thriving

Table of Content

• Introduction
• Origin and Distribution
• Colors and Markings
• Diet and Feeding
• Gender Differences
• Care of Molly Fish
• Conclusion

MOLLY FISH The molly fish, the common name given after their original genus Mollienisia , is a beautifully unique variety of live-bearer fish. Now placed in the family Poeciliidae, this genus is possibly one of the most diverse and exotic fishes available - examples such as sailfin mollies are recognized by their distinctive dorsal "sail". The other mollies are similar in shape but have smaller, dorsal fins Mollies come in a range of colors and are quite hardy, though they do best in warm water. Mollies can get sick from environmental stressors, even though shimmies are not a disease but rather an indication for distress. Mollies are mainsaved for the southern United States above to Union of Soviet Socialist Republics 5 down as well virtually Central and Northern South America. They occur primarily in freshwater habitats, but are also found and brackish estuaries. Mollies can adjust to seem like seawater for the short-run, however that is not wherever they live. Mollies are genetically closely related to guppies making it possible for them to hybridize under certain circumstances. Colour hybrids of spangled molly, such as the balloon molly varieties developed from Poecilia sphenops (black mollies) which was first bred over 100 years ago for colour and fin shape variarity in captivity. Popular forms are black molly (from Trinidad) and sailfin orange-fringed dorsal mollies. Albino forms with red eyes, true lyre tails of various colors (including chocolate, gold dusty and orange). This fitness advantage explains the female preference in black sailfin mollies (Poecilia sphenops have a short dorsal fin and females prefer longer newts) for males with large, colorful dorsal fins. Sailfin mollies are one of a Ffew color varieties, and these fish breed easily; however the sailfin develops only in young raised large tank aquariums. They can also be a little smaller, achieving an adult length of only 3.5 inches long.

However, male growing up in a backyard pond with large dorsal sailfin to 5-6 inches should appear from the month of five months old. Balloon molly is a particular variation of them, which have the cause rosette mutations in their spinal cord. The Balloon molly is common in the aquarium trade due to selective breeding, however health problems.

In the wild, mollies are for the most part herbivorous and do well when given plant material as well as algae. This natural tendency matches up well in an aquarium as they will often take to grazing on algae growth with gusto. While they are natural grazers, to guarantee them a nutritious diet and supplement their grazing it is essential to provide good quality food. Top off the meal with spirulina flakes, which are packed full of nutrients and make a good choice because they resemble one piece in mollies diet. Special tropical fish food list such as commercial molly food is created to provide essentials nutrients daily in proper quantity and can be a part of their diet.

Provide the mollies with tiny diced boiled spinach and other blanched vegetables like zucchini Benefits of adding some variety are health benefits. They also contain extremely important vitamins and minerals that help with the overall health of mollies. Feed in moderation, around twice daily and remove any leftovers after a few hours to keep the water clean. By feeding them a varied and well-rounded diet, you can help keep your mollies healthy for years to come!

Molly fish sexingMale & Female Mollies Gender DifferencesGender determination in mollies is relatively easy. Males bear a conspicuous gonopodium used to inseminate females, and the dorsal numerical fin is greatly enlarged in some species; only males have this elongated or otherwise exaggerated. Fan-shaped anal fin in females. The only easily distinguishable cue on a pregnant female is their midsection swells and have what we call "gravid spot" near the base of its anal fin. The eggs of females hatch inside them and the babies are released as free-swimming individuals. There is no parental care, and adults may prey on the neonates if they do not hide in aquatic plants. Mollies are fast growers and prolific breeders, the females producing half a dozen or more fry every month. Making a consistent environment that satisfies their demands is part of taking care of molly fish. They do well in a least 20-gallon tank with lots of plants, fine substrate, and open swimming sections. Mollies favor water with a pH of 7.5 to 8.5, a hardness of 15 to 30 dGH, and a temperature of about 78°F (25.5°C). Water quality can be preserved with a small amount of aquarium salt and frequent water changes (20–30%). Spirulina flakes, blanched veggies, premium flake food or pellets, and occasionally frozen or live meals should all be a part of their diet. Since mollies are live-bearers, the fry can be shielded by lush vegetation or a separate breeding tank. To lessen stress and prevent illness, keep an eye on the water's parameters, steer clear of abrupt changes, and surround them with calm tank mates. In conclusion, mollies are colorful and resilient fish that, given the correct circumstances, can flourish in a well-kept aquarium. The keys to their health and pleasure are to provide a 20-gallon tank, consistent water parameters, a balanced feed, and a calm environment. Stress and illness can be avoided with attentive observation and routine water changes. Mollies are a great choice for both rookie and seasoned aquarists, as they will add color and life to any aquarium with proper care.