Molly Aquarium Care Guide

Keeping Molly in an aquarium requires the right conditions.

Aquarium Information

• Care level: beginner
• Temperament: peaceful
• Diet: omnivore
• Minimum tank size: 20 gallons (for a small group of P. sphenops), 30+ gallons (for P. latipinna/velifera)
• Compatibility: Generally compatible with other peaceful, similarly sized community fish. Avoid fin-nippers or overly aggressive species. Good tank mates include other livebearers, tetras, rasboras, corydoras, and peaceful dwarf cichlids.
• Special requirements: Mollies thrive in well-planted aquariums with open swimming spaces. They appreciate slightly alkaline to hard water, and some species (especially P. latipinna and P. velifera) benefit from the addition of aquarium salt (1-2 teaspoons per gallon) to mimic their natural brackish habitats, though this is not strictly necessary for all varieties. Good filtration and regular water changes are essential for their health. Males can be territorial, so a ratio of 2-3 females per male is recommended to disperse aggression.

Water parameters

Temperature

24-28°C (75-82°F)

pH level

7.0-8.5

Hardness

10-25 dGH

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