Description
Overview
The Orange Marble Lyretail Molly is a striking and vibrant freshwater fish, known for its orange and black marbled pattern and elegant lyre-shaped tail. This variety of molly is a popular choice among aquarists due to its hardy nature, lively personality, and ease of care. With proper conditions, these fish can thrive in both freshwater and brackish setups, making them a versatile addition to community aquariums.
Origin
Mollies originate from the warm coastal waters, rivers, and estuaries of North, Central, and South America, particularly in Mexico and the Southern United States. In the wild, they are commonly found in slow-moving freshwater and brackish environments. Over time, selective breeding has resulted in the stunning colour variations seen in the aquarium trade today.
Feeding
Orange Marble Lyretail Mollies are omnivorous and have a diverse diet. They require both plant-based and protein-rich foods to stay healthy. Their diet should include:
High-quality flakes or pellets
Blanched vegetables (such as zucchini, spinach, and lettuce)
Live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms)
Algae-based foods or spirulina to support digestion and coloration
Tank Mates
Mollies are peaceful but active fish, making them great for community tanks. They do well with:
Other livebearers (platies, guppies, swordtails)
Peaceful tetras (neon tetras, rummy nose tetras)
Corydoras catfish
Gouramis (dwarf gouramis, pearl gouramis)
Snails and shrimp (avoid aggressive shrimp species)
Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish, such as cichlids, barbs, or bettas, as their flowing tails can be a target.
Aggression
Orange Marble Lyretail Mollies are generally peaceful but can show mild aggression, especially towards their own species. Males may chase females excessively during breeding, so it is best to keep a ratio of one male to two or three females to reduce stress. Providing plenty of hiding spots will help minimise territorial disputes.
Experience Level
These fish are beginner-friendly and relatively easy to care for. They are hardy and adaptable, making them an excellent choice for both new and experienced aquarists. However, their preference for slightly brackish water and occasional aggression within their species should be considered when setting up their tank.
Water Parameters
To keep Orange Marble Lyretail Mollies healthy, maintain stable water conditions:
Temperature: 72°F – 82°F (22°C – 28°C)
pH Level: 7.0 – 8.5
Hardness: 10 – 25 dGH
Salinity: Can tolerate freshwater but prefer slightly brackish water (optional addition of aquarium salt)
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (larger is better for groups)
Filtration: Moderate to strong filtration to keep the water clean and oxygenated
With the right care and environment, Orange Marble Lyretail Mollies can live for 3–5 years, providing colour and activity to any aquarium setup.
