Molly’s for algae control.

[NkSde]

So, in the last week or so I’ve been watching a marco rock after I introduced some dalmation molly’s to see if they could be used as a nano vegetarian.

I have to say I think it’s been a moderate success so far.

Here is prior to molly introduction.

In a 3 month old system currently in the uglies.

Acclimated the fish at 5 drips per second over two hours to a 1.026 ti match my dt.

Snapped this shot

Checked on it today and

Am I seeing things or does it look like they may showing some progress in the marco’s return to whiteness.

I’ll try to keep this up but it’s been fun and gave me an excuse to stop brushing rocks w a toothbrush.

 

[mattdg]

Mollies are great for algae control. Problem is, they will grow rapidly and the deteriorate just as quickly. I have had little luck keeping a SW molly in my reef for over a year. I think the toll of swimming against the increased current, avoiding getting stuck in power heads and what their body has to go through to filter out the salt, is a bit hard on them long term.

 

[NkSde]

Tbh that would make sense.
I’m hoping w proper watching and breeder boxes I can try to keep a steady pop.
1 male 3 female harem rn and watching their growth if not at least the clowns will eat.

 

[miguelvega76]

I use them to cycle the tank , pick on algae and they are fun swimmers. I think that if you acclimate properly and have moderate expectations they are good . They live naturally on brackish water and can be seen many times near mangroves . The hardiest ones in my experience are the sailfin orange and silver . The black ones not so much. They spawn readily in the aquarium. I kept a few fries as most of them became food for other fish , but the ones i kept have been good so far for over a year. Main problem is they are quite prolific but again if your are in the mindset that they are mostly utilitarian and that fry may become food , they are not bad option.