Despite its common name, not all wild males of this species develop the full sail-like dorsal fin. The pure wild form of the species is hardly ever seen within the hobby. Instead, cultivated color varieties or, more often, fertile hybrids between sailfins and two of their closest relatives — Poecilia sphenops (Sphenops Molly) and P. velifera (Yucatan Molly)—are seen.
Family
- Poeciliidae
Subfamily
- Poeciliinae
Distribution
- The Carolinas, Florida, Texas, Virginia, and the Atlantic coast of Mexico.
Size
- Males around 4in (10cm); females around 4 3/4in(12cm).
Behavior
- Peaceful shoaler; males constantly display toward each other.
Diet
- Range of foods accepted; vegetable component essential.
Aquarium
- Spacious, planted tank, with some open swimming space. Alkaline, medium-hard water with 1 teaspoonful salt per 1 Imp. gal (1 1/5 U.S. gal/4.5 I) important for long-term health. Temperature range: 77-82 F (25-28 C).
Breeding
- Broods of well over 100 fry are common every 8-10 weeks.
