In breeding Mollienisia, no two varieties should be kept in the same tank as they will cross breed. Each variety should be provided with a separate tank. (This is also true of the moons). Only very careful intelligent selective breeding has produced the Black Mollienisia, later the Sailfin Black Molly, and most recently, Black Molly Sailfin with an orange bordered dorsal.
BLACK MOLLIENISIA:
(Southern U. S.)
average size
Color: Both male and female coal black.
Breeding Habits: Live bearers—15 to 25 young born at irregular intervals throughout the year. Young when born are large and black. Turn gray in a few weeks and then gradually turn black. Female should never be moved when young are expected—as this usually results in loss of young and frequently loss of female. (See [Sailfin]). Young are fairly safe with parents if ample floating plants are provided. “Mollies” are algae eaters. Black Mollienisia have been crossed with Sailfins producing the beautiful BLACK MOLLIENISIA SAILFIN.
Temperature: 65° to 80° F. Breed best at 75° F.
Maturity: Good male becomes black in about 6 months. Female about 18 months. Breed at 9 months. Males less hardy.
Temperament: Very peaceful.
“Mollies” are heavy eaters, and largely vegetarians. Some algae should be present.