Black Sailfin Molly Care Guide – Poecilia latipinna
The Black Sailfin Molly (Poecilia latipinna) is a stunning livebearer known for its elegant, flowing dorsal fin and deep black coloration. Hardy, adaptable, and peaceful, these fish make an excellent addition to community aquariums or brackish setups. Native to the southeastern United States, Sailfin Mollies thrive in planted tanks with stable water parameters and plenty of swimming space.
Care Overview
Scientific Name: Poecilia latipinna
Common Name: Black Sailfin Molly
Origin: North America (Gulf Coast region)
Temperament: Peaceful
Adult Size: 4–5 inches (males slightly smaller)
Lifespan: 3–5 years
Difficulty: Easy
Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a small group
- Water Temperature: 74–82°F
- pH Range: 7.5–8.5
- Hardness: Moderate to hard water
- Salinity: Optional – can tolerate brackish conditions
- Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
- Décor: Live plants, driftwood, and open swimming space
Tip: Mollies appreciate some marine salt in the water (about 1 tsp per 5 gallons), though it’s not required for freshwater setups.
Feeding
Black Sailfin Mollies are omnivores that eat both plant and animal matter. Offer a balanced diet that includes:
- High-quality flakes or pellets
- Spirulina-based foods
- Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, peas)
- Occasional frozen or live foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms)
Feed small portions 1–2 times per day, avoiding overfeeding to prevent bloating and water quality issues.
Behavior & Tankmates
Mollies are social fish that do well in small groups (one male per 2–3 females). They get along with most peaceful species such as:
- Guppies
- Platies
- Swordtails
- Corydoras
- Tetras (non-fin nippers)
Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
Breeding
Black Sailfin Mollies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to free-swimming fry.
- Gestation lasts about 4 weeks.
- Provide floating plants or dense cover for fry protection.
- Feed newly born fry crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp.
Females can store sperm, allowing multiple births from one mating.
Common Health Tips
- Keep stable water parameters — Mollies are sensitive to poor water quality.
- Add aquarium salt for stress reduction and disease prevention.
- Watch for signs of fin rot or ich, which can occur in uncycled tanks.
Summary
The Black Sailfin Molly is an easy-to-care-for, eye-catching fish perfect for community or brackish aquariums. Their bold black coloration and active nature bring life and beauty to any tank. With proper water quality and nutrition, these graceful fish can thrive for years.
