Come identificare Sailfin Molly

Per identificare Sailfin Molly (Poecilia velifera), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

compressed

Colorazione

Wild type: Silvery-grey to olive-green, often with rows of iridescent blue or green spots on the flanks and dorsal fin. Captive-bred varieties exhibit a wide range of colors including black (Black Molly), white, orange, and various marbled patterns. The 'lira' variant specifically refers to the caudal fin shape.

Tipo di squame

cycloid

Posizione della bocca

superior

Caratteristiche distintive

Males possess an exceptionally large, sail-like dorsal fin, often with 14-19 rays (distinguishing feature from P. latipinna)., Males have a modified anal fin (gonopodium) for reproduction., The 'lira' variant has an elongated, lyre-shaped caudal fin, particularly noticeable in males., Relatively deep-bodied compared to other Poecilia species.

Pinna dorsale

Very large and sail-like in males, extending from behind the head almost to the caudal peduncle. Typically has 14-19 rays. Females have a smaller, more rounded dorsal fin.

Pinna caudale

Rounded in wild type and most cultivated forms, but specifically lyre-shaped (lira) in the 'Molly lira' variant, with elongated upper and lower rays.

Pinna pettorale

Small and rounded, positioned laterally.

Pinne distintive

Anal fin of males is modified into a gonopodium for internal fertilization. Pelvic fins are small and located ventrally.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Dorsal Fin Size (Males)

   The most prominent feature is the male's large, sail-like dorsal fin, which is significantly taller and longer than that of other molly species. Count the dorsal fin rays; P. velifera typically has 14-19 rays, while P. latipinna has 10-13.

2. 2

   Caudal Fin Shape ('Lira' variant)

   For the 'Molly lira' specifically, observe the caudal fin. It will have elongated upper and lower rays, forming a distinct lyre or crescent shape, differentiating it from the standard rounded caudal fin.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Poecilia velifera tends to have a deeper body profile compared to other mollies, especially when mature.

4. 4

   Coloration and Pattern

   Wild types often have iridescent spots on the body and dorsal fin. Captive-bred varieties come in many colors, but the large dorsal fin and 'lira' tail (if present) remain key identifiers.

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