Black Molly

The classic solid black molly, a hardy form that does best in hard, alkaline water. Years of inbreeding have weakened some stock, so buy healthy fish. It is also one of the best livebearers for a tank with a little salt.

Check the scientific name when buying, as common names vary between sellers and countries.

Males have a gonopodium, which is a modified anal fin used for mating. Females are larger and rounder.

Provide dense plants or floating cover for fry and for females that want a rest from males, and keep the water hard and alkaline.

Active, hardy and always on the move, with males displaying to females.

Keep a group, with two or three females for every male.

Not territorial, although some males chase each other.

Suits a peaceful community that likes hard water. Avoid fin nippers. Adults may eat shrimplets. It is likely to eat shrimp.

Fairly tolerant of different water, if it is clean and stable.

An omnivore with a strong need for plant matter, and it spends much of the day grazing algae.

Feed small amounts, and remove anything left after a few minutes.

Gives birth to live young, with no special setup needed. Adults may eat fry, so provide dense plants or move a heavily pregnant female to a separate, planted tank.