Sailfin Molly
Poecilia latipinna
Minimum Tank
30 Gallons
Adult Size
6 inches
Temperature
77-82°F (25-28°C)
pH Range
7.5-8.5
Lifespan
5 years
School Size
4+ fish
About Sailfin Molly
The sailfin molly is the largest and most impressive of the commonly kept molly species, native to the coastal brackish and freshwater habitats of the southeastern United States and Mexico. Males develop a spectacular oversized dorsal fin that can be nearly as tall as the body is deep, which they erect in impressive fan-like displays to attract females and intimidate rivals. Wild sailfin mollies are olive to gray with rows of spots, while captive varieties include silver, gold, black, and dalmatian patterns. These are robust, active fish that can grow to 5-6 inches, significantly larger than standard mollies. They are natural algae grazers and spend much of their time browsing surfaces.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 30-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 77-82°F (25-28°C)
- • pH: 7.5 - 8.5
- • Category: Livebearer
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Sailfin mollies need a spacious tank of at least 30 gallons due to their larger size and active swimming habits. They do best in hard, alkaline water and many keepers maintain them in brackish conditions with a specific gravity of 1.005-1.010, though they adapt to freshwater. Males need space to display their impressive dorsal fins, and multiple males may compete vigorously. Keep at least two females per male to distribute attention. Feed a diet heavy in vegetable matter including spirulina flakes, blanched vegetables, and algae wafers, supplemented with protein foods. They are prone to fungal infections and shimmies in soft, acidic water.
Quick Facts
114L
Min Tank (30gal)
15cm
Adult Size (6")
5yr
Lifespan
4+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Sailfin Molly
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Tank Mates for Sailfin Molly
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Molly
Poecilia sphenops
easy · 20+ gal
Balloon Molly
Poecilia sphenops var.
moderate · 20+ gal
Pearl Gourami
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easy · 30+ gal
X-Ray Tetra
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easy · 10+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other moderate-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Sailfin Molly need?
A Sailfin Molly needs a minimum tank size of 30 gallons (114 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 4.
What water parameters does a Sailfin Molly need?
Sailfin Molly thrive in water between 77-82°F (25-28°C) with a pH of 7.5-8.5.
Are Sailfin Molly easy to care for?
Sailfin Molly are considered moderate to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 5 years.
How big do Sailfin Molly get and what do they eat?
Sailfin Molly reach about 6 inches and are omnivores. Sailfin mollies need a spacious tank of at least 30 gallons due to their larger size and active swimming habits. They do best in hard, alkaline water and many keepers maintain them in brackish conditions with a specific gravity of 1.005-1.010, though they adapt to freshwater. Males need space to display their impressive dorsal fins, and multiple males may compete vigorously. Keep at least two females per male to distribute attention. Feed a diet heavy in vegetable matter including spirulina flakes, blanched vegetables, and algae wafers, supplemented with protein foods. They are prone to fungal infections and shimmies in soft, acidic water.