Pepper Molly (Poecilia sphenops variant) – 2–3 inches

The Pepper Molly is a selectively bred variant of the molly fish (Poecilia sphenops), named for its speckled black-and-white “peppered” pattern. Hardy and adaptable, it is one of the most beginner-friendly livebearers while still attractive to advanced aquarists.

Temperament & Social Needs

• Peaceful and community-friendly.

• Thrive in groups of at least 4–6 fish.

• Maintain a 1 male : 2–3 female ratio to reduce male harassment during breeding.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a small group; larger tanks preferred for breeding colonies.

• Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)

• pH: 7.5–8.5 (slightly alkaline)

• Hardness: Moderate to hard water (10–30 dGH)

Aquascaping & Lighting

• Provide both open swimming areas and planted zones with hiding spots.

• Mollies tolerate a range of lighting but do best under moderate light.

• Can adapt to freshwater or lightly brackish setups (a touch of aquarium salt helps health).

Diet

• Omnivorous. Feed a varied diet of high-quality flakes or pellets, plus blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, peas).

• Supplement with frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia.

• Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.

Breeding

• Livebearers that give birth to free-swimming fry.

• Gestation ~4–6 weeks; broods may include 20–60 fry.

• Provide dense plants (java moss, hornwort) for fry survival.

Lifespan

• Typically 3–5 years, longer with stable water quality.