Beginner Care Guide of Molly Fish

Date Posted: 2023-02-02 11:00:45
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Common Name: Molly

Average size: 2 - 5 inches, depend on species

PH: 7.0 - 7.5

Lifespan: 2 - 3 years

Water Hardness: 10 - 28dGH

Temperature: 21°C - 28°C

Variety: Molly, Short-finned molly, Sailfin molly, Mexican sailfin molly

TRAITS & BEHAVIOR

Diet:

They are omnivore. They consume vegetables and small live foods.

Swimming behavior:

Molly like to swim at the middle and top of the aquarium. For a better view, it is recommended to rear some bottom swimmers.

Live birth:

Molly give birth to babies rather than lay eggs. Therefore, it is recommended to add in some hiding places for baby’s fish to aid in their survival rate.

Aquarium Placement:

Keep away the aquarium from direct sunlight and electronic goods.

Aquarium Stand:

A suitable aquarium stand will safely support your aquarium.

Aquarium Size:

Molly need at least an aquarium size of 45 Liter with surface area being more important than depth.

Decoration:

Decorate the aquarium with plenty of live and bunch plants. However, be sure that the center of the aquarium is free flowing.

Filtration:

They do need well oxygenated water but refuse to have forceful water motion. Can add on filtration system such as hang on filter, internal filter, external filter and etc.

Lighting:

A 6 - 8 hours of light is needed for them and avoid extended exposure of lighting to prevent the growth of algae.

Salt:

Molly require small amount of salt such as ISTA Guppy Mineral Salt. Add in two teaspoons per 4 liters of water.

Water Temperature:

Always maintain the water temperature in between 21°C - 28°C by using ISTA Thermometer to measure.

Water change:

Advisee water change 10% of your aquarium water. Change at least 25% of aquarium water monthly by using cleaning tools.

General compatibility:

Female Betta, Cory cat, Danios, Minnows, Loach, Plecostomus, Rasbora, Tetra, Guppy, Swordtails and Platy.

NUTRITION

Staple diet:

Tetra Guppy, Tetra Min Flake and Tetra Pro complete food with advanced nutrients for all tropical fish are ideal for molly.

Supplement:

With the extra nutrients like carotene from JBL Granomix mini naturally enhance the brilliant colour of molly.

Treat:

Feed them once a while with JBL Novo GranoColor will help to boost up the immune system instead of only their body coloration.

Feeding:

Depending on the species and size, feed small amounts 1 - 2 times daily, with each time not more than 2 - 3 minutes. Take off the excess fish food with Nirox fish net.

HEALTH

Sign of healthy:

- Clear eye

- Smooth and clean in appearance

- Healthy appetite

- Calm and steady gill movement

- Bright and even colouring

Sign of illness:

- Loss of body colour or appetite

- Lying on the bottom of aquarium

- Poor growth or weight loss

- Frayed fins

- Scraping body on rocks

If you notice any illness sign(s), please to test water quality and improve it if necessary.

IMPORTANCE

- Avoid fish tank from being overcrowded as it may cause stress to fish and a higher chance for them to get sick.

-  Regular water change and an appropriate filtration is needed to maintain a good water quality.

-  Check water quality by using JBL Test Kit at least once a week.

-  Wash hand with soap after each time handling your aquarium.