Poecilia velifera

fish

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June 30, 2026

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Poecilia velifera, also known as the sailfin molly, is a species of tropical fish belonging to the genus Poecilia. These fish are popular in aquariums due to their hardiness and attractive appearance, typically measuring between 5 to 13 cm (2 to 5 inches) in length.1

Sailfin mollies are noted for the males' large, showy dorsal fins. They are often shiny and bluish in color, distinguishing them from other molly species like the common molly (P. sphenops), which is usually grayish. Various color varieties exist, including black mollies, which can be of different species within the Poecilia genus.12

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molly
latipinna and P. velifera), which are shiny and bluish and are noted for the large, showy dorsal fin of the male. Hybrids are also known, including P. formosa, a so-called species that is always female, resulting from a cross between P. sphenops and P. latipinna. There are…
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latipinna and P. velifera), which are shiny and bluish and are noted for the large, showy dorsal fin of the male. Hybrids are also known, including P. formosa, a so-called species that is always female, resulting from a cross between P. sphenops and P. latipinna. There are…
Read More