Assorted Lyretail Molly - Poecilia latipinna

Assorted Lyretail Molly

The Assorted Lyretail Molly is a vibrant and elegant livebearer fish known for its striking colors and unique, flowing tail fin. Perfect for community tanks, these mollies add a dynamic splash of color and activity to aquariums. With their hardy nature and easy care requirements, Lyretail Mollies are an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

Product Details

• Species: Poecilia latipinna or Poecilia sphenops
• Common Names: Lyretail Molly, Assorted Molly
• Origin: Central America, Southern United States
• Light Requirements: Moderate
• pH Range: 7.0 – 8.5
• Temperature: 24°C – 28°C
• Maximum Size: 6 – 10 cm (2.5 – 4 inches)
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Available Size: 5.5 cm

Care Guidelines

Aquarium Setup:
Lyretail Mollies thrive in a well-maintained aquarium with plenty of swimming space and areas of dense plant cover. They enjoy a sandy or fine gravel substrate with decorative elements such as rocks, driftwood, and plants to create hiding spaces. These fish prefer slightly brackish or hard freshwater conditions but can adapt to a wide range of setups. A filter with moderate water flow and a heater to maintain stable temperatures is ideal.

Water Parameters:
Lyretail Mollies prefer water with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.5 and temperatures between 24°C and 28°C. They are highly adaptable but thrive in hard water or slightly brackish conditions. Adding a small amount of aquarium salt can improve their health and mimic their natural habitat. Regular water changes and good filtration are essential to keep water quality high.

Diet:
Mollies are omnivorous and enjoy a balanced diet of high-quality flakes or pellets, supplemented with vegetable matter like blanched spinach or zucchini. They also appreciate live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Providing a varied diet will enhance their coloration and promote overall health.

Growth and Maintenance:
Lyretail Mollies grow at a moderate rate and can reach an adult size of 6–10 cm. They are livebearers, meaning they give birth to free-swimming fry, making them an exciting species to breed in home aquariums. To prevent overcrowding, monitor population growth and provide hiding spots for fry if breeding is intended.

Compatibility:

Lyretail Mollies are peaceful and get along well with other community fish of similar size and temperament. Ideal tankmates include guppies, swordtails, platies, tetras, and peaceful bottom-dwellers like Corydoras catfish. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species. A group of 3–5 mollies in a community setup encourages natural social behavior.

Availability:
Assorted Lyretail Molly is available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Visit or contact the store to check availability and bring these colorful and lively fish to your aquarium today!