Fin's Fish Guide
The Sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Fresh and brackish water of southeastern North America and Mexico, along calm, vegetated banks, ditches and estuaries.
Description
The sailfin molly is a livebearing toothcarp of the family Poeciliidae reaching about 15 cm. The silvery-grey body is covered with rows of spots that sometimes merge into streaks; the male stands out for its large, sail-shaped dorsal fin, which he raises in courtship to impress females, and bears a rod-shaped mating organ (gonopodium). The species lives in fresh and brackish water of the southeastern United States and Mexico, along quiet, vegetated margins, ditches and estuaries. As an omnivore it eats mainly algae and growth, supplemented with midge larvae and plankton. Unlike most fish it is a livebearer: after internal fertilisation the female gives birth to live young. It is a popular aquarium fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sailfin molly?
The Sailfin molly has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Ovoviviparous toothcarp; the male has a large, sail-shaped dorsal fin that he raises during courtship, and a rod-shaped mating organ.
Where does the Sailfin molly live?
The Sailfin molly lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh and brackish water of southeastern North America and Mexico, along calm, vegetated banks, ditches and estuaries.
How big does the Sailfin molly get?
The Sailfin molly grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 3 cm.
Is the Sailfin molly dangerous to humans?
No, the Sailfin molly is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Sailfin molly edible?
The Sailfin molly is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Poecilia
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Sailfin molly?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sailfin molly is one of 12,519 species in the app.