Lyretail Molly - Assorted

Poecilia sphenops

Sometimes called the Mexican molly or simply the molly, is a species of poeciliid fish from Central America. It was once understood as a widespread species with numerous local variants ranging from Mexico to Venezuela, but these variants are today considered distinct species belonging to the P. sphenops complex and P. sphenops itself as being native to Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras.

Mixed Lyretail Molly Overview

• Scientific Name: Poecilia latipinna or Poecilia sphenops (depending on lineage)

• Common Name: Mixed Lyretail Molly

• Strain Type: Fancy molly (selectively bred)

• Size: 3–5 inches (7.5–12.5 cm)

• Lifespan: 3–5 years with good care

• Coloration: "Mixed" refers to a variety of colors — including black, gold, dalmatian, silver, orange, and combinations — all with lyre-shaped tail fins

• Fin Type: Lyretail (long, elegant caudal fin with outward curving edges)

• Temperament: Peaceful, social, and active

• Swimming Level: Mostly mid to top

Tank Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (larger for groups)

• Aquascape:

  • Live or artificial plants (Java fern, hornwort, anubias)

  • Open swimming space

  • Gentle filtration

• Substrate: Sand or gravel

• Lighting: Moderate — enhances color and encourages plant growth

 Mollies do well in slightly brackish water but can live in full freshwater if stable and clean.

Diet

• Type: Omnivore

• Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times per day

• Diet Options:

  • High-quality flakes or pellets (herbivore-friendly)

  • Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, peas)

  • Live or frozen treats (brine shrimp, daphnia)

  • Algae wafers (they enjoy grazing)

A veggie-rich diet supports digestion and color.

Behavior & Tank Mates

• Temperament: Peaceful but active

• Best Tank Mates:

  • Other mollies, guppies, platies, swordtails

  • Corydoras, peaceful tetras, rasboras

  • Peaceful bottom dwellers (e.g., snails, shrimp with hiding spaces)

• Avoid: Fin-nippers (like tiger barbs), aggressive fish

Keep 1 male to 2–3 females to prevent harassment during breeding.

Breeding Info

• Type: Livebearer — gives birth to live fry

• Gestation Period: About 28–35 days

• Fry Protection:

  • Use dense plants (guppy grass, moss) or a breeding box

• Fry Care: Feed powdered flake food, baby brine shrimp, or infusoria

Special Care Tips

• Water Quality: Mollies are sensitive to ammonia and nitrate spikes — do regular water changes

• Salt: Optional — a small amount of aquarium salt can support immunity but isn’t required in a healthy freshwater setup

• Fin Care: Lyretails have longer, more delicate fins — avoid rough decorations and fin-nipping fish

• Overbreeding: Mollies reproduce frequently, so plan for fry management

Fun Fact

Lyretail Mollies are selectively bred for their unique, ornamental tails that resemble a lyre — an ancient harp-like instrument. The males often display their tails while courting females, making them eye-catching additions to peaceful community tanks.