Not furry, but we like them anyway.
Creamsicle Molly
Poecilia latipinna
Also called Orange Lyretail Molly, Creamsicle Lyretail Molly
Creamsicle Mollies are peaceful and active fish that spend most of their time swimming in the middle of the tank, foraging and exploring.
| Size | Small |
|---|---|
| Length | 7.6 to 12.7 cm (3 to 5 in)12 |
| Lifespan | 3 to 5 years32 |
| Coat | Fish body with lyretail or sailfin fin shapes |
| Origin | Selective breeding of the Sailfin Molly (Poecilia latipinna) and the Shortfin Molly (Poecilia sphenops), both native to the Gulf of Mexico region and Central America.21 |
| Last checked | 2026-11-04 |
Personality what they are like
Creamsicle Mollies are peaceful and active fish that spend most of their time swimming in the middle of the tank, foraging and exploring. They are social and do best in groups of three or more, showing minimal aggression toward tankmates. Males may chase females during breeding, but overall they are calm community fish.43
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Creamsicle Molly. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
- FeedingSmall amounts once or twice a dayevery day
- Temperature checkevery day
- Water changeAbout 25% of the waterevery week
- Water testevery week
- Glass cleanevery week
- Filter rinseRinse in old tank water, never tap waterevery month
Looks how to spot one
Fish body with lyretail or sailfin fin shapes
The Creamsicle Molly has a slender, streamlined body with a white base and bright orange patches, often resembling a creamsicle ice cream bar. The tail fin can be lyre-shaped (forked) or the dorsal fin can be large and sail-like, especially in males.24
Daily activity how busy a day looks
They are active swimmers and need a tank of at least 20 gallons (about 75 litres) for a small group. Provide open swimming areas along with plants and hiding spots.32
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Regular water changes and good filtration are essential. They are hardy but need clean water. Provide a planted tank with dense vegetation, which also helps protect fry.15
Home where they are happiest
Prefers slightly alkaline to neutral water with a pH of 7.0-8.5 and a temperature of 68-82°F (20-28°C). They can live in freshwater or slightly brackish water. A tank of 20-30 gallons is recommended for a group of 4-6 fish.152
Food basics what goes in the bowl
Omnivorous. Feed high-quality flakes or pellets, supplemented with plant-based foods like spirulina, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach). Offer occasional frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.42
Company who they like around
Social fish that should be kept in groups of at least three. They are peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish like guppies, corydoras, and dwarf gourami. They are not venomous or illegal to keep.43
The story where it all began
The Creamsicle Molly is a selectively bred colour variety, created by crossing the Sailfin Molly (Poecilia latipinna) and the Shortfin Molly (Poecilia sphenops). The breeding aimed to produce a fish with a white base and bright orange patches, resembling a creamsicle ice cream bar. This variety is not found in the wild; it exists only through aquarium breeding. It is often sold under the name Creamsicle Lyretail Molly due to its distinctive forked tail fin.21
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Creamsicle Molly?
Feed your Creamsicle Molly small amounts once or twice daily. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests feeding once a day, but splitting into two tiny meals can work well. Always check the food label and ask your vet for the exact amount for your fish.42 Pet Wiki plan
What does a Creamsicle Molly eat, and what should it never eat?
They are omnivores and enjoy high-quality flakes or pellets, spirulina, algae wafers, blanched vegetables like zucchini, and occasional frozen or live foods like bloodworms. Avoid feeding anything not made for fish, such as bread or human food; ask your vet for a safe list.42
How much space does a Creamsicle Molly need?
A group of Creamsicle Mollies needs at least a 20-gallon tank, with 20 to 30 gallons recommended for 4 to 6 fish. Provide open swimming areas along with plants and hiding spots to keep them active and happy.32
What temperature, light or water does a Creamsicle Molly need?
They prefer slightly alkaline to neutral water with a pH of 7.0 to 8.5 and a temperature between 68 and 82°F (20-28°C). They can live in freshwater or slightly brackish water. Moderate lighting and a planted tank suit them well.152
How often should I clean a Creamsicle Molly's home?
Perform a 25% water change every week, clean the glass weekly, and rinse the filter once a month in old tank water (never tap water). Regular cleaning keeps the water healthy and your fish thriving.15 Pet Wiki plan
Can a Creamsicle Molly live with others?
Yes, they are peaceful and social fish that do best in groups of three or more. They get along well with other calm tankmates like guppies, corydoras, and dwarf gourami.43
How long does a Creamsicle Molly live?
With good care, Creamsicle Mollies typically live 3 to 5 years. Providing clean water, a proper diet, and a stress-free environment helps them reach their full lifespan.32
Can I handle a Creamsicle Molly?
It is best to avoid handling fish as it can stress them and damage their protective slime coat. Observe them in the tank instead; if you must move them, use a soft net. Ask your vet for specific advice.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Molly
Sailfin Molly
Lyretail MollyWhere this comes from
Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].
- faquatics.com: creamsicle lyretail molly poecilia latipinna faquatics.comused for origin, length cm, grooming or care, habitat needs, history, fun fact
- aquanswers.com: creamsicle molly care guide orange white designer molly for beginners aquanswers.comused for origin, length cm, lifespan years, coat or body, colours, activity needs, habitat needs, diet basics, history
- thefishroom.net: creamsicle lyretail molly thefishroom.netused for lifespan years, temperament, activity needs, social needs
- shoalandstem.com: creamsicle molly shoalandstem.comused for coat or body, temperament, diet basics, social needs, fun fact
- azgardens.com: molly creamsicle lyretail molly live bearer azgardens.comused for grooming or care, habitat needs
- en.wikipedia.org: Poecilia latipinna en.wikipedia.org
Checked 2026-11-04. Text is written in our own words from these sources.