Gold Molly

Poecilia sphenops

Photo of aquarium fish Gold Molly
Natural range
  • Southern United States
  • Central America area
  • Colombia area
  • Venezuela area
LivebearersConservation status: Least concern LC

Family:Poeciliidae

Other scientific names: Gambusia modesta, Gambusia plumbea, Lembesseia parvianalis, Mollienesia altissima, Mollienesia macrura, Mollienesia pallida

Many aquarium enthusiasts know this fish by its trade English name Molly Gold, or as the Gold Molly. In CIS countries, it is often also called Yellow Molly. It is important to note that this variation is not found in the wild but is the result of artificial cross-breeding. It is based on popular species such as Poecilia velifera, Poecilia latipinna, Poecilia sphenops, as well as their hybrids, which were specifically bred to achieve their characteristic coloration.

Required aquarium volume
150 L
Size in aquarium
12 – 18 cm
Temperature
21 – 26 °C
Temperament
Peaceful (regular)
Parameters
Temperature21 – 26 °C
Water pHNeutral (7) – Slightly alkaline (8.5)
Water dHHard (15) – Very hard (30)
Water salinitymoderate (5–10 g/L)
Size in aquarium12 – 18 cm
Lifespan3 years
TemperamentPeaceful (regular)
Toward small fishnot a predator
Required aquarium volume150 L
Lightingany
Substrateany (no restrictions)
Water flowweak
FeedingMixed diet (meat + plant-based)
CareMixed (solitary / pair / group)

Frequently asked questions

The essentials: size, tank volume, water parameters and care

How big does Gold Molly get?

An adult reaches 12–18 cm in length. Plan the tank around the maximum size: the fish quickly outgrows a cramped setup.

What size aquarium does Gold Molly need?

The minimum recommended volume is 150 L. A smaller tank speeds up nitrate build-up and raises stress levels.

What water parameters does Gold Molly need?

Temperature 21–26 °C, pH 7–8.5, hardness 15–30 dGH. Stability matters more than exact values: sudden swings are harder on the fish than a small deviation from the ideal.

How long does Gold Molly live?

Around 3 years when kept properly. Lifespan depends directly on tank volume, water quality and a varied diet.

Is Gold Molly aggressive?

Temperament: peaceful (regular). Keep this in mind when choosing tank mates.

How many Gold Molly should be kept together?

Recommended setup: mixed (solitary / pair / group). Ignoring this is a common cause of stress and disease.

What does Gold Molly eat?

Diet type: mixed diet (meat + plant-based). Feed small portions that are finished within a couple of minutes — overfeeding does more harm than underfeeding.

What is the scientific name of Gold Molly?

The scientific name of the species is Poecilia sphenops, family Poeciliidae. It also appears in the literature as: Gambusia modesta, Gambusia plumbea, Lembesseia parvianalis.

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