How to care Chocolate Lyretail
The Chocolate Lyretail, a variant of the sailfin molly, is a captivating freshwater fish known for its distinctive lyre-shaped tail and deep chocolate coloration. These fish originate from the coastal and brackish waters of Central and South America, making them highly adaptable and beginner-friendly.
In above image at the Top it's Male Chocolate Lyretail and at the bottom it's Female Chocolate Lyretail
In their natural habitat, Chocolate Lyretails inhabit estuaries, slow-moving rivers, and lagoons rich in aquatic vegetation. This vegetation provides shelter and sustenance, which can be mimicked in captivity with live plants like Java moss or Vallisneria. Open swimming space is equally important as they are active swimmers.
A tank of at least 15 gallons (57 liters) is ideal for a small group, with the water maintained at a pH of 7.0-8.0, a temperature of 72-82°F (22-28°C), and 12-20 dGH hardness. As brackish water fish, adding a small amount of marine salt to achieve a salinity of 1.005-1.015 will benefit their health, although they can adapt to pure freshwater when necessary.
Dietary requirements for Chocolate Lyretails are straightforward, as they are omnivores. A balanced diet of high-quality flakes or pellets supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia will keep them healthy. They also graze on algae in the tank, contributing to natural algae control.
Chocolate Lyretails are livebearers, giving birth to fully formed fry. A stocking ratio of 1 male to 2 females is recommended to prevent stress on females. Breeding occurs easily in the right conditions, and fry can be raised on crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp.
With a lifespan of 2-3 years, Chocolate Lyretails are hardy fish but prefer stable water parameters. They coexist well with other peaceful species, making them excellent for community tanks. Regular tank maintenance, such as water changes and monitoring parameters, ensures they thrive.
Their beauty, ease of care, and peaceful demeanor make Chocolate Lyretails a favorite among aquarists, offering both aesthetic appeal and functionality in planted or mixed-species aquariums.
Chocolate Lyretail is a fascinating aquarium fish that stands out with its vibrant colors. It belongs to the family Poeciliidae and is native to the Central America.
This species has a care level of Easy and requires a minimum tank size of 15 gallons (57 liters). It typically reaches a size of 3 inches (8 cm).
Preferred water parameters include a specific gravity (sg) of 1.005 - 1.015, pH ranging from 7.0 - 8.0, and a temperature between 72-82°F (22-28°C). Additionally, maintaining water hardness within the range of 72-82°F (22-28°C) is essential.
For stocking, the recommended ratio is 1:2 M:F. The Chocolate Lyretail is widely available and has a diverse diet that includes Flakes, pellets, algae, brine shrimp.
With a life span of 2-3 years, this species is known for its very easy care requirements. It is an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Providing a well-maintained tank environment with suitable water conditions will ensure the health and vibrancy of this captivating species.
