Black Molly (Poecilia sphenops)
Common Names: Black Molly, Black Sailfin Molly
Family: Poeciliidae
Origin: Central America, Southern Mexico, and parts of the Yucatán Peninsula
Appearance:
Black Mollies are striking fish known for their solid black coloring, though some may display slight metallic sheen or iridescent highlights, especially under proper lighting. They have a sleek, streamlined body and large, sail-like dorsal fins, especially in males, which can make them stand out in any tank. Black Mollies can grow to around 3 to 4 inches (7-10 cm) in length, with males being slightly smaller than females.
Temperament:
Black Mollies are peaceful, social, and active fish, making them ideal for a community tank. They do best in groups, as they can sometimes be a little shy when alone. These livebearers are also quite hardy and adapt well to different tank environments, although they do require stable water conditions to thrive.
Water Conditions:
- Temperature: 22°C to 28°C
- pH: 7.0 to 8.0
- Hardness: Moderate to hard water
- Tank Setup: Black Mollies thrive in a well-planted tank with open swimming space. They enjoy a fine substrate and plenty of hiding spots from plants or decorations. Like other Mollies, they can tolerate slightly brackish water, so you might want to add a bit of aquarium salt to the water to mimic their natural environment.