Stardust Molly

Introduction: Welcome to the enchanting world of the Stardust Molly! Known for its dazzling appearance and playful nature, this fish is sure to add a touch of celestial beauty to your aquarium.

Scientific Name: The Stardust Molly is scientifically known as Poecilia sphenops.

Water Quality:

• Temperature: Maintain a comfortable tropical environment with temperatures ranging from 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C).
• pH Level: Keep the water slightly alkaline to neutral, with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.5, to support their well-being.
• GH Level: Aim for a General Hardness (GH) of 10 to 25 dGH for their optimal health.
• KH Level: Ensure a Carbonate Hardness (KH) level of 10 to 25 dKH to maintain water stability.

Feeding: Stardust Mollies are omnivorous and have hearty appetites. Offer them a balanced diet of high-quality flake or pellet food, supplemented with live or frozen treats like brine shrimp and daphnia.

Tank Mates:

• Peaceful Community Fish: Stardust Mollies are peaceful by nature and get along well with other non-aggressive community fish, such as guppies, platies, and peaceful tetras.
• Avoid Fin Nippers: It’s best to avoid tank mates known for nipping fins, as Mollies can have flowing fins.

Substrates and Tank Decorations: Provide a mix of fine gravel and smooth substrates for the Stardust Mollies to forage comfortably. Decorate the tank with plants, rocks, and driftwood to create hiding spots and add a natural touch to their environment.

Suitable Plants: Adding live plants like Java Moss and Vallisneria not only enhance the beauty of the aquarium but also provide shelter for fry (baby fish) if breeding occurs.

Sexing: Sexing Stardust Mollies is relatively easy. Males tend to have a modified anal fin called a gonopodium, which is used for mating. Females, on the other hand, have a regular rounded anal fin.

Breeding: Breeding Stardust Mollies can be accomplished in a separate breeding tank with ample hiding spots for the fry. Provide some floating plants where the fry can find refuge. Mollies are prolific breeders and may produce multiple batches of fry.

Maximum Size and Longevity: Stardust Mollies typically reach a size of 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm) in length. With proper care, they can live up to 3 to 5 years, offering years of enjoyment in your aquarium.

General Information: Stardust Mollies get their name from the sparkling speckles that resemble stars on their bodies, giving them a celestial and magical appearance. Their graceful movements and peaceful temperament make them a favorite among aquarists.

A Fun Fact: Stardust Mollies are known to be hardy and adaptable, making them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced fishkeepers. Their resilience allows them to thrive in a variety of tank conditions, bringing joy to aquarium enthusiasts of all levels!