Care guide, husbandry, breeding, disease, and sourcing intelligence on Sailfin Molly - written by the Fast Aquatics editorial team.
Sailfin Molly at a glance
Adult size: 4-6 inches · Min tank/pond: 30 gallons · Difficulty: beginner · Diet: omnivore · Lifespan: 3-5 years.
Sailfin Molly (Poecilia latipinna) is a popular freshwater fish in the aquarium and pond hobby. Hardy and forgiving when given proper water chemistry.
Where Sailfin Molly comes from
Sailfin Molly (Poecilia latipinna) 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.
Sailfin Molly tank size and setup
Sailfin Molly requires a minimum of 30 gallons for healthy adults. The minimum is based on 4-6 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 Sailfin Molly
Sailfin 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 Sailfin Molly eats
Sailfin 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.
Sailfin Molly tankmates and compatibility
Sailfin Molly works in community tanks with peaceful species in similar size class. Avoid mixing aggressive with passive species.
Sailfin Molly adult size and lifespan
Sailfin Molly reaches 4-6 inches at adulthood with a captive lifespan of 3-5 years with proper care.
Can you breed Sailfin Molly?
Sailfin Molly can be bred in dedicated breeding tanks with appropriate setup and water-chemistry triggers. Research the species-specific breeding requirements before attempting.
Common Sailfin Molly diseases and problems
Sailfin Molly is susceptible to standard freshwater diseases (ich, columnaris, fin rot, bacterial infections). Quarantine new Sailfin Molly for 4 weeks before adding to display.
Where to buy Sailfin Molly online
Sailfin Molly is sold at LFS, online retailers, and direct from breeders. Browse live Sailfin 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.
Sailfin Molly taxonomy and care recommendations cross-checked against the following authoritative references and our internal vendor + breeder database.