Molly Fish (Poecilia spp.)

are a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts in the UAE, well-loved for their bright colors, peaceful nature, and ability to adapt to a variety of freshwater environments. At Sahara Exotics in Ajman, we provide high-quality Molly Fish that are ideal for beginners and experienced aquarists alike, offering both visual appeal and ease of care in any tropical community tank.

Molly Fish originate from Central and South America and are naturally found in freshwater streams, coastal brackish waters, and even slightly saline environments. Their ability to adapt to different water conditions makes them highly suitable for indoor aquarium setups in the UAE, where maintaining consistent water quality is crucial due to temperature fluctuations.

Size, Appearance, and Varieties

Molly Fish are medium-sized livebearers, with most adults reaching between 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm) in length. Males are typically slimmer and display larger, more decorative dorsal fins, while females are rounder with a more subdued appearance. However, both genders come in a range of stunning colors and patterns.

Common varieties include:

• Black Molly – a solid jet-black body, sleek and elegant.

• Dalmatian Molly – a speckled black-and-white pattern, highly eye-catching.

• Gold Dust Molly – a golden-yellow fish with dark edges.

• Sailfin Molly – known for its large, fan-like dorsal fin and striking size.

• Lyretail Molly – features elongated, lyre-shaped tail fins for a flowing appearance.

These varieties are readily available at Sahara Exotics, bred for vibrant coloration and local adaptability.

Environmental Requirements

Molly Fish are best kept in tropical freshwater aquariums with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 28°C, which matches well with indoor environments in homes and offices across Ajman and the wider UAE. They prefer slightly alkaline water with a pH level between 7.5 and 8.5, and moderate water hardness. Their tolerance for a small amount of salt in the water also helps support disease resistance.

A well-filtered tank with live plants, rocks, and swimming space keeps Molly Fish comfortable and stress-free. They enjoy planted tanks with gentle currents and should be provided with adequate hiding spaces, especially when females are pregnant or fry are present.

Diet and Feeding

Molly Fish are omnivorous, meaning they thrive on a balanced diet of both plant-based and protein-rich foods. A healthy feeding routine includes:

• High-quality flakes or micro pellets as a staple

• Algae wafers and blanched vegetables like zucchini or spinach

• Occasional live or frozen treats such as brine shrimp or bloodworms

This diverse diet enhances their coloration and supports active, healthy growth. Feeding small portions twice a day is ideal, avoiding overfeeding to maintain good water quality.

Breeding and Behavior

One of the reasons Molly Fish are so popular is their ease of breeding. They are livebearers, meaning females give birth to free-swimming fry instead of laying eggs. A healthy female Molly Fish can give birth to 20–120 fry every 4 to 6 weeks. Breeding is straightforward and often occurs naturally in a well-maintained tank.

To protect fry, provide dense plants or breeding boxes, as adult Molly Fish may eat their young if hiding spots are limited. Separating pregnant females in a breeding tank is another common approach used by hobbyists in the UAE.

Molly Fish are peaceful and do well in community tanks with compatible species such as guppies, platies, tetras, and cory catfish. To reduce stress, especially among females, it is recommended to keep a ratio of 1 male to 2 or 3 females.

Lifespan and Long-Term Care

With proper care, Molly Fish can live 3 to 5 years, making them a reliable and long-term addition to any home aquarium. Routine water changes, stable conditions, and a varied diet help ensure they remain active and disease-free throughout their lifespan.

At Sahara Exotics in Ajman, we offer a healthy selection of Molly Fish varieties along with everything you need to support their care, including food, water conditioners, filtration systems, and tank accessories. Whether you’re starting your first tank or adding to a growing aquarium, Molly Fish are a beautiful and practical choice for any fish lover in the UAE.