All fish / Poeciliidae

One-spot Livebearer

Poecilia vivipara

Also known as one spot livebearer, onespot molly, guaru, south american molly, vivipara molly

A small silvery livebearer with a distinct dark spot on each flank below the dorsal fin, and males often show yellowish fins. It is very hardy and tolerates fresh, brackish and even sea water, so it suits keepers who like unusual livebearers and biotope tanks.

Care at a glance

Care level

Easy

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

5 cm

Temperature

20 to 28 °C

pH

7 to 8.5

Smallest tank

60 litres

Keep as

Group of 6 or more, more females than males

Diet

Omnivore: algae, flake foods, vegetable matter and small live or frozen foods

Swims

Top of the tank

Lifespan

2 to 3 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

South America: coastal drainages from Venezuela to Argentina, mainly Brazil

Breeding

Females give birth to live young after internal fertilisation, usually every four weeks or so. Breeding is easy in captivity, and dense plants help fry escape being eaten by adults.

Good to know

Prefers hard, alkaline water and benefits from a little salt. Rarely sold, so it may be confused with other small Poecilia species.