Black Lyretail Molly

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Poecilia latipinna / Poecilia sphenops
• Common Name: Black Lyretail Molly
• Adult Size: 3 to 5 inches (7.5 to 12.5 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 3 to 5 years
• Habitat: Native to Central and North America – found in brackish waters, estuaries, and coastal streams with plenty of vegetation

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (larger is better for groups)
• Ideal Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• pH Range: 7.5–8.5
• Water Hardness: 10–30 dGH (hard water preferred)

• Temperament: Peaceful, active, social
  Can be kept in community tanks, but males may be slightly territorial with each other
  Best kept in groups, ideally 1 male to 2–3 females

Diet & Nutrition

• Type: Omnivore
• Diet: High-quality flakes, pellets, algae, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and live/frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia)

• Feed once or twice daily in small portions

Breeding & Spawning

• Breeding Type: Livebearer
• Behavior: Males court females persistently
• Gestation Period: Around 4 weeks
• Fry Care: Adults may eat the fry; provide plants or breeding boxes for fry to hide

• Can produce 20–100 fry per batch

Appearance

• Color: Deep, velvety jet black body
• Tail: Elegant, elongated lyre-shaped caudal fin with extended tips

• Body Shape: Slim, torpedo-shaped body with a graceful fin extension

Distinctive Features

• Striking black coloration combined with the unique lyretail shape
• Hardy and adaptable
• Great for beginners

• Excellent for brackish or freshwater community aquariums