Care guide, husbandry, breeding, disease, and sourcing intelligence on Dalmatian Molly - written by the Fast Aquatics editorial team.
Dalmatian Molly at a glance
Adult size: 5 inches · Min tank/pond: 30 gallons · Difficulty: beginner · Diet: omnivore · Lifespan: 3-5 years.
Dalmatian Molly (Poecilia latipinna (var)) is a popular freshwater fish in the aquarium and pond hobby. Hardy and forgiving when given proper water chemistry.
Where Dalmatian Molly comes from
Dalmatian Molly (Poecilia latipinna (var)) is native to specific tropical and subtropical freshwater systems. Captive-bred specimens at most LFS come from generations of farmed stock and are generally hardier and more colorful than wild-caught equivalents.
Dalmatian Molly tank size and setup
Dalmatian Molly requires a minimum of 30 gallons for healthy adults. The minimum is based on 5 inches adult size and territorial range. Plan a tank sized for adult footprint, HOB or canister filter rated 4-6x volume, dechlorinated water, appropriate temperature heater, and stocking-appropriate hardscape.
Water parameters for Dalmatian Molly
Dalmatian Molly prefers freshwater parameters: temperature 74-80°F, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-12 dGH, KH 3-8 dKH, ammonia + nitrite 0 ppm, nitrate under 20 ppm. Use dechlorinator on every water change.
What Dalmatian Molly eats
Dalmatian Molly is a omnivore. Provide a varied diet of pellets, frozen foods, and supplemental greens. Feed twice daily in small portions. Browse our food guides for product recommendations.
Dalmatian Molly tankmates and compatibility
Dalmatian Molly works in community tanks with peaceful species in similar size class. Avoid mixing aggressive with passive species.
Dalmatian Molly adult size and lifespan
Dalmatian Molly reaches 5 inches at adulthood with a captive lifespan of 3-5 years with proper care.
Can you breed Dalmatian Molly?
Dalmatian Molly can be bred in dedicated breeding tanks with appropriate setup and water-chemistry triggers. Research the species-specific breeding requirements before attempting.
Common Dalmatian Molly diseases and problems
Dalmatian Molly is susceptible to standard freshwater diseases (ich, columnaris, fin rot, bacterial infections). Quarantine new Dalmatian Molly for 4 weeks before adding to display.
Where to buy Dalmatian Molly online
Dalmatian Molly is sold at LFS, online retailers, and direct from breeders. Browse live Dalmatian Molly from vetted Fast Aquatics vendors with carrier-tracked overnight shipping, climate-aware hold logic, and a 4-hour DOA window with photo-evidence claims.
Related freshwater species you might also keep
Other species in the same category with care profiles on Fast Aquatics. Click any name for the full husbandry breakdown.