Gold Molly

The Gold Molly (Poecilia sphenops) is a vibrant and attractive livebearer known for its brilliant golden-yellow coloration that shines under aquarium lighting. These beautiful fish feature a uniform gold color that covers their entire body, creating a stunning visual impact in any aquarium. Hardy, peaceful, and easy to care for, Gold Mollies are excellent choices for community tanks and add both color and constant activity to any peaceful setup. Their bright coloration makes them perfect for creating focal points in planted aquariums.

Care Sheet – Gold Molly (Poecilia sphenops)

Temperament

• Peaceful, active, and social

• Best kept in groups with mixed genders or single-sex groups

Adult Size

• 3–4 inches

Minimum Tank Size

• 20 gallons for a small group

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 75–82°F

• pH: 7.5–8.2 (prefers slightly alkaline water)

• Hardness: Moderate to hard (10–20 dGH)

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20–30 ppm

Diet

• Omnivorous (leans toward herbivorous)

• Feed a varied diet:

  • High-quality flakes or pellets

  • Spirulina-based foods for vegetable matter

  • Blanched vegetables and occasional protein

• Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily

Behavior & Compatibility

• Excellent for peaceful community tanks

• Compatible with:

  • Other livebearers, peaceful tetras, rasboras

  • Corydoras and other peaceful bottom dwellers

  • Peaceful gouramis and rainbowfish

• Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species

Aquarium Setup

• Planted tanks with dark substrate to enhance gold color

• Open swimming space

• Moderate to bright lighting to showcase golden color

• Clean, well-oxygenated water

Care Level

• Easy

• Very hardy and beginner-friendly

Lifespan

• 3–5 years with proper care

Special Notes

• Brilliant golden-yellow coloration covering entire body

• Creates a stunning focal point in aquariums

• Very adaptable to various water conditions

• Breed readily in home aquariums