Molly and Similar Species
Poecilia latipinna o Poecilia sphenops
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Molly. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Guppy
Poecilia reticulata
Key differences: Guppies are generally smaller, have more varied and often more vibrant caudal fin patterns, and males have a more elaborate, often flowing, caudal fin. Their dorsal fin is also shorter than a Sailfin Molly's.
Platy
Xiphophorus maculatus
Key differences: Platies have a more compressed, stockier body shape and typically lack the elongated dorsal fin of the Sailfin Molly. Males of Xiphophorus species have a sword-like extension on the lower caudal fin, which is absent in mollies.
Swordtail
Xiphophorus hellerii
Key differences: Swordtails are distinguished by the prominent 'sword' extension on the lower lobe of the male's caudal fin. They also tend to be more elongated than mollies.
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