Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Sailfin molly

The Sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) is a small, livebearing fish species in the family Poeciliidae, characterized by its distinctive large, sail-like dorsal fin in males, which can reach up to 15 cm in total length, though females are typically smaller at around 10 cm.^[1] Native to freshwater, brackish, and coastal marine habitats along the eastern and Gulf coasts of North America, it thrives in warm, vegetated waters such as marshes, streams, ponds, estuaries, and ditches, tolerating a wide salinity range from 0 to 80 PSU and temperatures between 7.7°C and 41°C, with an optimal range of 20–30°C.^[2]^[3] This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males displaying a prominent, fan-shaped dorsal fin used in courtship displays, while both sexes have an oblong body that is generally olive-gray with rows of dark spots and iridescent flecks, though aquarium-bred varieties show diverse colors like green or black.^[2]^[1] Sailfin mollies are omnivorous, feeding primarily on algae, small invertebrates such as rotifers and mosquito larvae, and aquatic insects, often forming aggregations in vegetated shallows where they serve as prey for larger fish, birds, and reptiles.^[2]^[1] As livebearers, females give birth to broods of 10–140 young after a 28-day gestation period, with the ability to store sperm for multiple broods and no parental care provided post-birth, contributing to their rapid population growth.^[2]^[1] Originally distributed from the Cape Fear River in North Carolina to Veracruz, Mexico, the Sailfin molly has been introduced to regions including California, Hawaii, Australia, and the Philippines, often for mosquito control or as baitfish, where it sometimes establishes invasive populations that compete with native species.^[3]^[1] Highly valued in the aquarium trade for its hardy nature and ornamental appeal, it is also commercially fished in some areas, though it faces no major conservation threats.^[2]

Taxonomy and nomenclature

Classification

The sailfin molly, Poecilia latipinna, is classified within the domain Eukaryota, kingdom Animalia, phylum Chordata, class Actinopterygii, order Cyprinodontiformes, family Poeciliidae, genus Poecilia, and species P. latipinna.^[4]^[5] This placement reflects its status as a ray-finned fish in the diverse order of toothed carps, closely allied with other livebearing poeciliids.^[6] The species was originally described as Mollienesia latipinna by Charles Alexandre Lesueur in 1821, based on specimens collected from freshwater ponds near New Orleans, Louisiana.^[6] Early taxonomic history involved confusion due to Lesueur's simultaneous description of Mollienesia multilineata for similar material, leading to nomenclatural instability; this was resolved by a 1959 ruling from the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN), which prioritized M. latipinna Lesueur, 1821, as the valid name.^[2] Additionally, P. latipinna has been historically conflated with the Yucatan molly (Poecilia velifera Regan, 1914) owing to morphological similarities, particularly in dorsal fin structure, though they are now regarded as distinct species, with some debate suggesting P. latipinna, P. velifera, and P. petenensis may represent a polytypic complex.^[4] Phylogenetically, P. latipinna is closely related to other Poecilia species, including the common molly (P. sphenops), sharing a common ancestry within the genus and exhibiting evidence of interspecific hybridization both in natural populations and under captive conditions.^[7] Such hybridization contributes to genetic variation but does not alter the species' distinct taxonomic status. No subspecies are currently recognized for P. latipinna, despite documented genetic differentiation among populations, which reflects regional adaptations rather than formal subspecific divisions.^[8]

Common names and etymology

The scientific name Poecilia latipinna derives from the genus Poecilia, which originates from the Greek word poikilos meaning "multicolored" or "variegated," reflecting the species' often spotted or patterned appearance.^[9] The specific epithet latipinna comes from the Latin words latus (broad) and pinna (fin), alluding to the prominent, fan-like dorsal fin in males. Originally described as Mollienesia latipinna by Charles Alexandre Lesueur in 1821 based on specimens from Louisiana, the species was later reclassified under Poecilia in 1963 by Rosen and Bailey to reflect the priority of the genus Poecilia over Mollienesia.^[2]^[10] In English, the fish is most commonly known as the sailfin molly, with occasional references to sailfin platy or simply molly; the term "molly" is a shortened form of the former genus Mollienesia, itself named after the French statesman François Nicolas Mollien (1758–1850).^[11]^[12] Less frequently, older regional U.S. texts have called it the sailfin shiner, though this is now uncommon. In other languages, it is known as molliénésie à voilure (French), Breitflossenkärpfling (German), molinezja szerokopłetwa (Polish), bubuntis (Tagalog), and tabai (Hawaiian).^[2] Nomenclature confusion arises in the aquarium trade, where P. latipinna is often misidentified or hybridized with the similar Yucatan sailfin molly (Poecilia velifera), leading to sales of mixed or impure stock labeled as pure sailfin molly.^[13]^[14] This overlap stems from their shared sailfin morphology and overlapping distributions in introduced ranges, though P. velifera is native to the Yucatán Peninsula and typically larger.^[15]

Physical description

Morphology and sexual dimorphism

The sailfin molly, Poecilia latipinna, is a small, elongated fish with a cylindrical body profile, featuring a small, dorsally flattened head, rounded snout, and an upturned mouth adapted for surface feeding.^[16] The body is covered in cycloid scales, with 23–28 scales along the lateral line and 16 scales around the caudal peduncle, contributing to its smooth appearance.^[16] It possesses a single dorsal fin, a rounded caudal fin, and small pectoral fins, with no adipose fin present.^[9] Sexual dimorphism is pronounced in P. latipinna, particularly in fin structure and overall robustness. Males are generally smaller in body size than females but exhibit a greatly enlarged, sail-like dorsal fin with 12–16 rays, which is used in elaborate courtship displays to attract mates.^[16]^[17] In contrast, females have a smaller, fan-shaped dorsal fin and a more robust, deeper body form suited to their role in livebearing reproduction.^[2] Males also display more vibrant coloration that accentuates this dimorphism, while the female's anal fin remains unmodified.^[2] A key male-specific feature is the modification of the anal fin into a gonopodium, an intromittent organ with 7–9 rays that facilitates internal fertilization.^[16]

Coloration and variants

The sailfin molly, Poecilia latipinna, exhibits a base coloration of light gray to olive on the body, with a lighter belly and several rows of dark spots—typically five—along the sides that often coalesce into tiger-like stripes or a lateral band.^[18]^[2] These spots extend to the back and dorsal fin, providing camouflage in vegetated coastal habitats.^[2] Sexual dimorphism in coloration is pronounced, with males displaying more vivid hues to attract females during breeding; their bodies take on a greenish-blue tint, and fins develop an iridescent blue or green sheen, often with orange spotting on the enlarged dorsal fin.^[2]^[19] Females, in contrast, maintain a duller grayish-olive appearance with less defined spots, lacking the breeding intensification seen in males.^[2] Larger males (>45 mm standard length) show full color development, while smaller ones remain subdued.^[17] Geographic variation influences spotting intensity, with southern populations, such as those in Texas, exhibiting more pronounced dark spots and stripes compared to paler, less spotted forms in northern ranges like North Carolina.^[20] This polymorphism supports natural diversity across the species' coastal distribution from the southeastern United States to Mexico.^[20] In captivity, selective breeding has produced diverse variants, including melanistic (black), albino (white with red eyes), golden or orange, lyretail (with modified caudal fins), and balloon (short-bodied) forms, often enhancing the sailfin trait in males for ornamental appeal.^[21]^[22] Hybrids with the shortfin molly (P. sphenops) are common in the aquarium trade, resulting in mixed "molly" strains that blend traits.^[23] The black molly, frequently a hybrid involving P. latipinna, features a deep black body but lacks the full sailfin development; pure sailfin melanistic variants retain underlying spotting beneath the dark overlay.^[19]^[20]^[24]

Distribution

Native range

The sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) is native to coastal drainages along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, ranging from the Cape Fear River drainage in North Carolina southward through the southeastern United States to eastern Texas, encompassing the Florida Everglades and the lowlands of the Gulf of Mexico. This distribution extends into northeastern Mexico, from Tamaulipas (near Tampico) to Veracruz.^[25]^[16]^[26]^[2] Within this range, the species penetrates inland up to approximately 200 km from the coast, primarily in slow-moving rivers and streams, as well as isolated springs and sinkhole systems, particularly in Florida and Texas where stable, warmer conditions support such extensions.^[16]^[4] Populations are most abundant in central and southern portions of the range, such as peninsular Florida and coastal Texas, where warmer temperatures and suitable habitats allow for high densities, while they become rarer toward the northern limits in North Carolina due to cooler climatic conditions restricting reproduction and survival.^[2]^[26] Genetic diversity is notably higher in southern refugia, such as those in Texas and Mexico, compared to northern populations, with evidence of clinal variation in traits including the number of body spots, increasing from north to south across the latitudinal gradient.^[8]^[27]

Introduced populations

The sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) was first recorded outside its native range in the 1920s at Banff Hot Springs in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada, where it was introduced via aquarium releases and remains confined to the hot springs.^[21] Subsequent widespread introductions occurred primarily through aquarium hobbyist releases starting in the 1930s, with additional deliberate stockings for mosquito control in some regions.^[28] Established non-native populations now occur across multiple continents, including in the western United States (California, Nevada, Utah), Hawaii, New Zealand, Queensland in Australia, Iraq, Singapore, and Brazil.^[28]^[16] In the United States, illegal releases have also led to detections in Montana and other states.^[29] These populations often stem from escapes or intentional disposals of ornamental fish, facilitating rapid spread in suitable aquatic systems.^[21] The species has demonstrated strong establishment success in warm-climate regions, particularly where water temperatures remain above 20°C year-round, allowing for persistent breeding.^[30] Notable examples include thriving groups in hypersaline springs of Death Valley National Park, California, where populations tolerate salinities up to 87 ppt—more than twice that of seawater—due to their euryhaline physiology.^[16] Their livebearing reproductive strategy enables quick colonization, with females producing multiple broods annually in favorable conditions, contributing to population expansion in introduced sites.^[3] Genetic analyses reveal introgression in some introduced areas, where sailfin mollies hybridize with native or co-introduced Poecilia species, such as P. mexicana, potentially altering local gene pools.^[21] However, pure strains of P. latipinna persist in isolated introductions, like those in geothermal wetlands of New Zealand, where limited gene flow maintains genetic integrity.^[16] As of 2025, breeding populations have been confirmed in Australian waterways, particularly in Queensland's coastal drainages, marking ongoing expansion from initial 1960s releases.^[31] In the European Union, the species is monitored as a potential invader due to its popularity in the pet trade and climatic suitability in southern regions, with established groups already noted in Greece since 2017.^[30]^[32]

Habitat and ecology

Environmental tolerances

The sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) is a euryhaline species capable of inhabiting a wide range of salinities, from freshwater (0 ppt) to hypersaline conditions, demonstrating remarkable osmoregulatory adaptations. In laboratory settings, individuals have tolerated salinities up to 87 ppt, while in the wild, populations persist in environments reaching approximately 42 ppt, such as coastal salt marshes and hypersaline lagoons. This tolerance is facilitated by specialized gill chloride cells that actively regulate ion uptake and excretion, particularly through the expression of Na⁺,K⁺-ATPase enzymes, enabling efficient ionoregulation across salinity gradients.^[33]^[34]^[16] Temperature tolerances for the sailfin molly span 6–41°C, with an optimal range of 25–28°C for growth and reproduction, though populations in subtropical native ranges can endure brief exposures to lower temperatures around 7.7°C during winter cold snaps. In areas prone to occasional freezes, such as parts of Florida, individuals survive short-term low temperatures. Upper limits extend to 41°C in acclimated fish, reflecting physiological flexibility that supports persistence in variable coastal climates.^[16]^[35] The species thrives in low dissolved oxygen environments below 2 mg/L, employing aquatic surface respiration to access oxygen-rich surface films via its upturned mouth morphology, which compensates for hypoxic conditions common in vegetated shallows and stagnant waters. Preferred pH levels range from 7.0 to 8.2, aligning with the alkaline conditions of its brackish and coastal habitats, where it maintains acid-base balance without significant physiological stress.^[2]^[36]^[37] Sailfin mollies favor shallow waters less than 1 m in depth, typically in slow-moving or stagnant systems like ponds, sloughs, and vegetated backwaters, where they avoid strong currents that exceed gentle flow rates. This preference for low-velocity habitats minimizes energy expenditure on locomotion while maximizing access to cover and food resources. Additionally, the species exhibits high resistance to pollutants, tolerant to elevated levels of ammonia and nitrates in urban ditches and anthropogenically altered waterways with organic runoff.^[19]^[38]^[39]

Ecological interactions

The sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) functions as an omnivorous mid-level consumer within aquatic food webs, primarily feeding on algae, detritus, vegetation, and small invertebrates such as benthic organisms and mosquito larvae. This dietary role enables it to regulate algal growth and invertebrate populations, contributing to community structure in shallow, vegetated habitats.^[3]^[5] In controlled settings, populations of mosquito larvae can be significantly reduced through predation by sailfin mollies, supporting their use in biological vector control programs, although field effectiveness depends on environmental factors.^[16] In both native and introduced ecosystems, the sailfin molly competes with native cyprinodontiform fishes, including mosquitofish (Gambusia spp.) and killifishes (Fundulus spp.), for shared resources like food and habitat space. This competition is intensified in non-native ranges, where the sailfin molly's rapid reproductive output—often producing multiple broods annually—allows it to outpace and potentially displace slower-reproducing natives, leading to shifts in local fish assemblages.^[21]^[3] Symbiotic associations include close reliance on aquatic vegetation for cover and refuge, enhancing survival amid predators, while its grazing complements that of other herbivores in maintaining algal balance. Furthermore, hybridization with congeners like P. sphenops and P. mexicana occurs frequently, introducing genetic variation that can alter the gene pools of wild populations.^[21]^[5] Wild sailfin mollies exhibit schooling in loose aggregations, which facilitates foraging efficiency and antipredator vigilance without tight polarization typical of more cohesive schools. Males actively defend small territories through elaborate courtship displays, erecting their prominent dorsal fin to signal rivals and attract females, with aggression levels rising in response to higher population densities that influence social hierarchies and overall group dynamics.^[40]^[41] As a tolerant species thriving in varied water conditions, the sailfin molly serves as a bioindicator for environmental quality, with physiological responses like oxidative stress markers signaling pollution levels in impacted habitats. It also forms a key prey base for higher trophic levels, including piscivorous fish and avian predators, thereby supporting broader ecosystem connectivity.^[42]^[16]

Predators and parasites

The sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) faces predation from a diverse array of aquatic and terrestrial predators across its habitats. Aquatic insects such as dragonfly nymphs and giant water bugs (Belostomatidae) prey on juveniles and smaller individuals. Fish predators include largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) and gar species, while reptiles like American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis), turtles, and snakes target both adults and fry. Birds such as herons, snowy egrets (Egretta thula), and kingfishers, along with mammals like raccoons (Procyon lotor), also consume sailfin mollies, particularly in shallow waters. Predation pressure is notably higher on fry due to their small size and vulnerability at the base of the food chain, contributing to female-biased adult sex ratios as males suffer elevated mortality from their conspicuous breeding displays.^[2] Sailfin mollies employ several behavioral strategies to mitigate predation risk. They often seek refuge under floating vegetation or near structural elements in their environment to reduce visibility to predators. Individuals actively avoid chemical cues from predators, such as those released by crayfish (*Procambarus clarkii*), by shifting position away from contaminated areas. Schooling behavior in groups further dilutes individual risk, while the prominent dorsal sailfin in males, though primarily for courtship, may serve as a distraction during displays, though this increases their overall susceptibility compared to females.^[2]^[43] Parasitic infections are common in sailfin molly populations, with several taxa affecting gut, skin, and gills. The trematode Saccocoelioides sogandaresi (Haploporidae) inhabits the intestinal tract, where it completes its life cycle. Protozoan parasites include Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, which causes white spot disease by attaching to the skin and fins, leading to visible cysts and potential secondary infections; sailfin mollies, including black variants, can develop acquired resistance after initial exposures. Copepod ectoparasites such as Lernaea cyprinacea attach to the body surface and gill filaments, causing tissue damage, inflammation, and respiratory impairment, with infestations more prevalent in cultured or high-density settings. Parasite loads tend to increase in dense populations, exacerbating stress and transmission.^[2]^[44]^[45] In introduced populations, sailfin mollies encounter novel parasite communities that differ from those in native ranges, often with reduced diversity but potential for new infections from local hosts. Studies comparing native Gulf Coast sites to introduced areas in California and elsewhere reveal shifts in parasite prevalence, including higher rates of certain protozoans like Oodinium and Trichodina in non-native settings, which may alter host fitness and disease dynamics. These introductions can also facilitate pathogen spillover to indigenous species, though specific impacts vary by location.^[46]^[19]

Life history

Growth, size, and lifespan

The sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) displays sexual dimorphism in size at maturity, with males typically reaching sexual maturity at 3–7 cm standard length (SL) and females at 5–10 cm SL. Males can attain a maximum total length (TL) of 15 cm, while females are generally smaller at 10 cm TL.^[9]^[2]^[17] Growth in sailfin mollies is rapid during the first three months, often reaching up to 4 cm in length, after which the rate slows considerably. This process is influenced by environmental factors, including population density, where high densities stunt adult male size to approximately 5 cm, and temperature, with optimal growth occurring around 28°C. Females typically achieve 50% of their maximum size by six months of age. Growth patterns follow an approximate von Bertalanffy model derived from fishery studies:

L(t) = L_\infty \left(1 - e^{-K t}\right),

where L_\infty is the asymptotic length, t is age in years, and K \approx 0.5 year^{-1}.^[2]^[21]^[47]^[48] In the wild, sailfin mollies have a lifespan of 1–3 years, though males often live less than one year after maturity due to intense reproductive effort. Under optimal aquarium conditions, individuals can survive up to 5 years. Lifespan is shortened by high reproductive demands, particularly in males through constant courtship, and in northern ranges by overwintering mortality from cold temperatures.^[19]^[49]^[49]^[50]^[51]

Diet and foraging

The sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) exhibits an omnivorous diet, primarily consisting of plant matter such as algae, detritus, and periphyton, which forms the bulk of its intake in natural habitats.^[21] Animal components, including zooplankton like rotifers and copepods, small crustaceans such as ostracods, and aquatic insects, supplement this herbivorous base, comprising a notable but secondary portion of the diet.^[19] Diatoms, particularly from the Bacillariophyceae group (e.g., genera Cyclotella and Navicula), are frequently consumed and contribute significantly to the overall nutritional profile.^[52] Foraging occurs mainly at the surface and in mid-water layers, where the species uses its upturned superior mouth to scrape and graze on algae and associated materials from vegetation or the water column.^[19] This behavior allows efficient exploitation of oxygen-rich surface areas, even in low-oxygen environments down to 1 mg/L.^[19] Newly hatched fry initially target microscopic organisms such as infusoria and small worms like microworms to support rapid early growth.^[23] In some populations, males temporarily reduce foraging activity during courtship displays to focus on reproductive efforts, potentially impacting their energy allocation.^[53] Feeding intensity and diet composition show seasonal variation, with lower vacuity indices (empty stomachs) and broader diet breadth in warmer months due to increased availability of algal resources, while winter conditions lead to reduced overall intake.^[52] Diet overlap remains high across size classes, indicating minimal partitioning of resources among individuals.^[54] In captive settings, sailfin mollies require a diet supplemented with vegetable matter, such as blanched greens or algae-based foods, to mimic natural herbivory and prevent digestive issues like constipation from excessive protein intake.^[55] Inadequate nutrition, particularly deficiencies in vitamins from imbalanced feeds, can compromise immune function and contribute to secondary infections, underscoring the need for varied, plant-rich rations.^[56]

Reproduction and development

The sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) exhibits a polygynous mating system, where males compete for access to multiple females through courtship displays and coercive behaviors. Larger males typically employ elaborate courtship, including sigmoid-shaped displays with extended dorsal fins, chasing receptive females, and gonopodial thrusts to transfer sperm via the modified anal fin known as the gonopodium. Smaller males often resort to sneaky mating tactics, such as rapid thrusts without prior displays, to fertilize eggs. Females exercise mate choice primarily based on male dorsal fin size and display vigor, which serve as indicators of genetic quality and health, with larger-finned males achieving higher mating success in low-predation environments.^[41]^[17] As a viviparous livebearer, the sailfin molly undergoes internal gestation lasting 28–45 days, influenced by temperature and salinity, with superfetation enabling females to carry multiple broods simultaneously and produce litters every 20–50 days under optimal conditions. Each brood typically yields 10–100 fry, with an average of 30–50, though larger females can produce up to 140 offspring per litter; this variability correlates positively with female body size and condition. Females can store viable sperm for several months, allowing reproduction without recent mating and contributing to multiple overlapping broods throughout the reproductive season, which spans warmer months from February to November in native ranges.^[2]^[3]^[57] Newborn fry measure approximately 8–12 mm in total length and are immediately independent, possessing functional jaws, pigmented eyes, and no yolk sac reserves, enabling them to forage autonomously from birth. Parental care is absent, and females may consume their own fry if not separated, though this behavior is opportunistic rather than systematic. Sex ratios at birth are typically 1:1, determined genetically via XY chromosomal inheritance, though adult populations often skew female due to higher male mortality from predation and aggressive interactions.^[58]^[2] Fecundity in female sailfin mollies is notably high, with individuals capable of producing 20–40 broods over their 2–3 year lifespan, influenced by environmental factors such as salinity and photoperiod. Brood sizes and overall fry production increase in brackish water (e.g., 25‰ salinity yields up to 78 fry per brood compared to 30–40 in freshwater), likely due to enhanced osmoregulation and nutrient uptake. Longer photoperiods (e.g., 14:10 light:dark) also boost fry numbers and juvenile survival rates compared to shorter cycles, aligning with the species' adaptation to subtropical daylight variations that trigger reproductive cycles.^[59]^[60]^[3] Hybridization occurs frequently in areas of sympatry or captivity with closely related species like the shortfin molly (P. sphenops) and guppy (P. reticulata), resulting in fertile offspring that exhibit intermediate traits such as fin morphology and coloration. These hybrids are viable and often intentionally bred in the aquarium trade to create novel varieties, though they can complicate wild population genetics where introgression blurs species boundaries.^[61]^[62]^[63]

Human relations

Aquarium trade and breeding

The sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) is a highly popular species in the global ornamental fish trade, valued for its hardiness, vibrant color variations, and livebearing reproductive strategy that facilitates easy propagation in captivity.^[16]^[21] It ranks among the most commonly traded livebearers, with annual sales volumes estimated at 500,000 to 1,000,000 individuals in markets like Australia (as of 2008), contributing to broader global trade figures exceeding hundreds of millions of ornamental fish annually.^[16] This popularity stems from its adaptability to a wide range of aquarium conditions, making it suitable for beginners and educational displays demonstrating viviparity.^[21] In captivity, sailfin mollies require a minimum tank size of 80 liters for small groups to allow adequate swimming space and reduce stress, with larger setups of 100 liters or more recommended for displaying the males' prominent dorsal fins.^[64] Water parameters should mimic their natural brackish preferences: temperatures of 24–28°C, pH between 7.5 and 8.5, and general hardness of 8–18°dH, often supplemented with slight salinity (specific gravity 1.005–1.010) to enhance health and coloration.^[64]^[23] Aquariums should include dense plants for cover and hiding, along with strong filtration to maintain water quality, as these fish produce moderate waste and benefit from stable, oxygenated environments.^[16]^[23] Breeding sailfin mollies in captivity is straightforward due to their prolific livebearing nature, with females producing broods of 10–140 fry after a 28-day gestation period, often multiple times per year.^[16]^[64] A harem ratio of one male to three females minimizes aggression and promotes successful spawning, which can be encouraged by gradually increasing salinity to simulate brackish conditions; fry should be separated immediately into a rearing tank with fine mesh or plants to prevent cannibalism by adults.^[23] Selective breeding programs focus on enhancing the sail-like dorsal fin in males and intensifying colors, often through line-breeding high-quality specimens to produce exaggerated traits over generations.^[16] Poor quarantine practices during trade can introduce risks such as velvet disease (Amyloodinium ocellatum), a parasitic infestation that appears as a golden dust on the skin and gills, treatable with formaldehye-based medications if detected early.^[65] Traded varieties include the wild-type silver form with its characteristic large dorsal fin, as well as selectively bred black, dalmatian (speckled), and lyretail morphs, alongside hybrids with related species like the Yucatán molly (P. velifera) often marketed generically as "sailfin" or "molly" mixes.^[16]^[23] These variants are produced through targeted breeding to meet aesthetic demands in the pet industry. Economically, sailfin mollies offer low entry costs, typically $2–10 per individual or $12–30 for breeding pairs (as of 2025), making them accessible for hobbyists while supporting their use in educational settings to illustrate livebearing reproduction.^[16]^[66]^[67]

Invasive impacts and management

The sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) has established invasive populations outside its native range, altering native aquatic communities through competition for resources and aggressive interactions with endemic species. In introduced habitats, it competes with native fishes such as the California killifish (Fundulus parvipinnis) and exhibits aggressive behavior that disrupts foraging and reproduction in species like the Bahama pupfish (Cyprinodon laciniatus).^[68] Additionally, sailfin mollies prey on native invertebrates, contributing to the decline of damselfly populations in Hawaiian wetlands, where their distributions overlap with reduced native odonate abundances.^[19] Hybridization with closely related poeciliids has also been reported in some populations.^[19] Specific impacts are evident in regions like California, where sailfin mollies have contributed to the decline of the endangered desert pupfish (Cyprinodon macularius) by outcompeting it for food and habitat in brackish systems such as the Salton Sea and associated drainages.^[69] In Australia, introduced populations in Queensland floodplains, such as those near Hervey Bay, have spread via natural dispersal during floods, establishing in coastal creeks and posing risks to native wetland ecosystems through resource competition.^[68] Primary pathways of introduction include accidental or intentional releases from the aquarium trade, escape from bait buckets used in fishing, and historical stocking for mosquito control in waterways.^[68]^[69] Management efforts focus on prevention and containment to mitigate further spread. In Australia, sailfin mollies are classified as a restricted pest species under state legislation, prohibiting their release into the wild or use as baitfish to curb establishment in natural waters.^[68] In the United States, regulatory measures in non-native states emphasize public education campaigns on responsible pet disposal, discouraging aquarium releases that have fueled invasions in western wetlands.^[70] Eradication attempts in isolated habitats have employed targeted chemical treatments, though success is limited in larger systems due to the species' high reproductive rates and environmental tolerances.^[19] Ongoing monitoring by agencies such as the U.S. Geological Survey's Nonindigenous Aquatic Species program tracks population expansions and informs risk assessments, revealing established populations in over 20 U.S. states and territories.^[69] The International Union for Conservation of Nature also monitors global distributions to prioritize intervention sites. Climate models predict northward range expansion in North America and Europe by mid-century, with medium-to-high climatic suitability emerging in currently cooler regions under warming scenarios, potentially exacerbating impacts on temperate wetlands.^[70]^[71]

Conservation

Status assessment

The sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List, with the assessment originally conducted on 3 February 2019 and reaffirmed in the 2025-1 version.^[5] In key areas like southern Florida, populations are estimated at 10,000–90,000 individuals based on genetic surveys, contributing to stable native populations across its range.^[27] Population trends in the native range, spanning coastal drainages from North Carolina to Mexico, are generally stable or increasing in restored habitats, such as subtropical bayous where vegetation enhancements have supported higher abundances.^[72] However, local declines occur due to urbanization, with studies indicating reduced reproductive output in developed coastal zones such as Florida estuaries.^[73] The LC classification is supported by the species' extensive distribution along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, and the absence of major range-wide threats; populations are monitored through traditional surveys and emerging methods like environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding for poeciliid fishes in estuarine systems.^[5]^[74] In the United States, the species is not considered threatened, holding a NatureServe global rank of G5 (secure).^[4] Regionally, it is listed as a pest species in Australia, where it is restricted from release into the wild, and as an unwanted organism in New Zealand.^[16] As of 2025, the global IUCN status remains unchanged, though recent sub-population assessments for Gulf Coast variants incorporate updated genetic data to refine local resilience evaluations.^[5]^[26]

Threats and protection

Native populations of the sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) face several localized threats, primarily from anthropogenic activities and environmental changes. Habitat destruction due to coastal development has significantly impacted essential mangrove and estuarine environments; for instance, urban and agricultural expansion along Biscayne Bay in South Florida has resulted in the loss of over 80% of native mangrove wetlands, which serve as critical nurseries and foraging grounds for the species.^[75] Across Florida, approximately half of the state's mangrove forests have been lost to development, further reducing available brackish and freshwater habitats.^[76] Pollution from agricultural runoff exacerbates these pressures by degrading water quality in coastal systems, potentially increasing parasite prevalence and stressing fish communities.^[77]^[78] Climate change compounds habitat risks through sea-level rise, which salinizes inland freshwater areas and accelerates mangrove die-off in regions like Florida Bay, altering the species' preferred euryhaline environments.^[79]^[27] Overexploitation remains minor, mainly involving collection for bait fishing in coastal areas and illegal harvesting for the ornamental trade in Mexico, where annual freshwater fish commerce exceeds 43 million individuals.^[80] Protective efforts focus on habitat conservation and restoration. In the United States, sailfin molly populations in key areas like the Everglades National Park are safeguarded through federal protections that limit development and collection.^[81] The species is not listed under CITES, but international trade is regulated under the U.S. Lacey Act to prevent illegal commerce. Ongoing mangrove replanting initiatives, such as those by the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, aim to restore degraded coastal forests and enhance resilience against erosion and salinity shifts.^[82]^[83] Research supports these measures, with recent genetic studies (2024) examining phenotypic diversification and local adaptation in sailfin mollies to inform resilience strategies amid environmental variability.^[8] Captive assurance programs for isolated spring populations help mitigate risks from habitat fragmentation, though they are not widespread. The future outlook highlights vulnerability to hurricanes, which can disrupt population structure and habitats, as observed in post-disturbance genetic shifts; adaptive management, including salinity-tolerant buffer zones via wetland restoration, is recommended to bolster long-term viability.^[84] Despite an IUCN Least Concern assessment, these localized threats underscore the need for continued monitoring.^[5]

References

[1]
Poecilia latipinna, Sailfin molly : fisheries, aquarium - FishBase
Feb 3, 2019 · Found in still or gently flowing warm water of small creeks and drains (Ref. 44894). Occurs in ponds, lakes, sloughs, and quiet, often vegetated, backwaters ...Missing: habitat | Show results with:habitat
[2]
Sailfin Molly – Discover Fishes - Florida Museum of Natural History
Feb 6, 2025 · The sailfin molly is found in fresh, brackish, and coastal salt water in coastal lowland habitats from North Carolina to Texas and the Yucatan ...Missing: scientific | Show results with:scientific
[3]
Poecilia latipinna
Sailfin Mollies (Poecilia latipinna) are native in freshwater, brackish and marine habitats from the Cape Fear River, North Carolina, to Veracruz, Mexico. They ...
[4]
The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
Insufficient relevant content. The provided URL (https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/191748/58335451) does not contain specific information on threats or conservation measures for *Poecilia latipinna* (Sailfin molly) related to habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, overexploitation, protection, research, or future outlook. The page lacks detailed species-specific data on these topics.
[5]
Poecilia latipinna - NatureServe Explorer
Classification. Scientific Name: Poecilia latipinna (Lesueur, 1821). Kingdom: Animalia. Phylum: Craniata. Class: Actinopterygii. Order: Cyprinodontiformes.
[6]
Poecilia latipinna, Sailfin molly : fisheries, aquarium - FishBase
Feb 3, 2019 · Classification / Names Common names | Synonyms | Catalog of Fishes(genus, species) | ITIS | CoL | WoRMS | Cloffa. Teleostei (teleosts) ...
[7]
Poecilia latipinna (Lesueur, 1821) - GBIF
Common name: Sailfin Molly. Taxonomy: Mollienesia tipinna was originally described by Lesueur [C. A.] 1821: 3, pl. 3 [Journal of the Academy of Natural Sciences ...
[8]
Genetic variability and population structure of Poecilia latipinna
Dec 7, 1978 · THE pattern of genetic variability among natural populations is commonly attributed to the influence of environmental heterogeneity on ...Missing: subspecies | Show results with:subspecies
[9]
Genetic and phenotypic diversification in a widespread fish, the ...
Jul 1, 2024 · We investigated a widespread livebearing fish, the Sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) combining genetic, life-history, and environmental data, asking how ...Missing: subspecies | Show results with:subspecies
[10]
Poecilia latipinna, Sailfin molly : fisheries, aquarium - FishBase
Feb 3, 2019 · Occurs in ponds, lakes, sloughs, and quiet, often vegetated, backwaters and pools of streams (Ref. 5723) and also in coastal waters (Ref. 7251).
[11]
MOLLY Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
Word History. Etymology. Noun (1). by shortening from New Latin Mollienisia, former genus name, from Comte François N. Mollien ...
[12]
MOLLY Definition & Meaning - Dictionary.com
molly · C19: from New Latin Mollienisia, from Comte F. N. Mollien (1758–1850), French statesman ; molly · C18: perhaps from Molly , pet name for Mary.
[13]
[PDF] KEEPING THE YUCATAN SAILFIN MOLLY (POECILIA VELIFERA)
Although its accepted common name is Yucatan Molly, and other variations are used, it should not be confused with the. Sailfin Molly (P. latipinna) of the ...
[14]
[PDF] First record of non-native sailfin molly Poecilia latipinna ... - REABIC
Jun 24, 2020 · Sailfin molly species is outwardly similar and can be confused with the Yucatan molly, P. velifera Regan, 1914. However, Yucatan molly is ...Missing: 1959 | Show results with:1959
[15]
Sailfin Mollies: What are the Facts vs. Fiction? - Monster Fish Keepers
Jun 19, 2024 · There are at least two species of sailfin mollies, Poecilia velifera and P. latipinna. Velifera is apparently much larger, up to 6 inches or more, and is the ...Missing: taxonomic confusion ICZN 1959
[16]
[PDF] Sailfin Molly (Poecilia latipinna) - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
First record of non-native sailfin molly Poecilia latipinna (Lesueur, 1821) (Cyprinodontiformes: Poeciliidae) in Africa (Lake Manzala,. Egypt). BioInvasions ...Missing: original | Show results with:original
[17]
Size and morphological variation in males of the sailfin molly ...
Mature males of the sailfin molly, Poecilia latipinna (Poeciliidae), display extensive variation in size and morphology. Small males, less than about 30 mm.
[18]
Embryo Nourishment in Sailfin Mollies - jstor
Thus, matrotrophy may incur some energetic cost that renders it inefficient for small females and for females with substantial or dependable energy reserves ...Missing: anatomy respiration
[19]
[PDF] Sailfin Molly Poecilia latipinna - SC State Library Digital Collections
Since isolated pools, ponds, impoundments and ditches adjacent to estuarine and brackish marshes are a preferred habitat for the sailfin molly, land development ...Missing: scientific | Show results with:scientific<|control11|><|separator|>
[20]
[PDF] Sailfin Molly (Poecilia latipinna) - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Megalocytivirus is a genus within the family Iridoviridae which also includes the genera. Iridovirus, Chloriridovirus, Lymphocystivirus and Ranavirus (Chinchar ...
[21]
The Coolest Freshwater Fish You've Never Seen - TFH Magazine
Geographic variants with different colors are common, indicating a good degree of polymorphism, and thus creating the basis for the myriad of color ...
[22]
Poecilia latipinna (sailfin molly) | CABI Compendium
Jul 27, 2014 · P. latipinna has successfully colonized aquatic and estuarine habitats because of wide environmental tolerances, the ability to colonize ...
[23]
Poecilia latipinna – Sailfin Molly - Seriously Fish
Sexual Dimorphism. Males possess a gonopodium and a large, long, sail-like ... latipinna has been selectively bred into many different colour morphs for ...
[24]
Care Guide for Mollies – Feeding, Breeding, and Tank Mates
### Molly Fish Care Summary (Focusing on Sailfin Where Specified)
[25]
Black Sailfin Molly - Goliad Farms
Nov 15, 2013 · Once the black color is set after an outcross to a wild molly, the strain becomes almost true breeding, although often the fry are more gray ...
[26]
None
Nothing is retrieved...<|separator|>
[27]
Genetic and phenotypic diversification in a widespread fish, the ...
Jul 1, 2024 · We investigated a widespread livebearing fish, the Sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) combining genetic, life-history, and environmental data, asking how ...Missing: meristics | Show results with:meristics
[28]
Population Genomics of the Euryhaline Teleost Poecilia latipinna
Overall, the data on SNP polymorphism suggest first, that within populations, P. latipinna has substantial genetic variation in comparison to GBS SNP studies ...Missing: subspecies | Show results with:subspecies
[29]
Sailfin Molly (Poecilia latipinna) - Species Profile
Sep 29, 2011 · It was first brought to Hawaii from Texas in 1905 to test its effectiveness in controlling mosquitoes (Seale 1905; Van Dine 1907; Brock 1960). A ...Missing: original | Show results with:original
[30]
Sailfin Molly - Montana Field Guide
This tropical aquarium fish is an illegally released pet fish. The native range is southeastern United States, Mexico, and Central America.
[31]
Global distribution and climatic match of a highly traded ornamental ...
It is endemic to the eastern coastline of North America, from North Carolina, through the east coast of Florida to the Gulf of Mexico (Meffe and Snelson, 1989).
[32]
Sailfin Molly, Poecilia latipinna (Lesueur 1821) - Fishes of Australia
Sailfin Mollies are native to North America and were introduced into Queensland waters via the aquarium trade. They prefer warm water and give birth to live ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[33]
First confirmed record of an established population of sailfin molly ...
Sep 30, 2017 · The Vouliagmeni molly was positively identified as the true sailfin molly, Poecilia latipinna (Lesueur, 1821), using the number of scales around ...
[34]
[PDF] Comparisons of Salinity Tolerances and Osmotic Regulatory ...
Oct 1, 1992 · Poecilia latipinna is natively distributed over coastal ar- eas of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico of North and Central America, from ...
[35]
ATPase expression in gills of the euryhaline sailfin molly, Poecilia ...
The goal of the present study was to profile the osmoregulatory mechanisms of the sailfin molly upon salinity challenge by indicators including physiological ...
[36]
Differences in Thermal Tolerance in Coexisting Sexual and Asexual ...
Based on these measurements, it is suggested that cold snaps occurring in winter, but not summer temperatures, can significantly change population composition ...Missing: low | Show results with:low
[37]
Behavioral and physiological compensation for chronic hypoxia in ...
Poecilia latipinna acclimated to chronic hypoxia (6 wk at 1.0 mg L(-1) O(2)) exhibited higher hemoglobin and red blood cell concentrations and a 17%-19% lower ...Missing: dissolved tolerance
[38]
Sailfin molly • Poecilia latipinna • Fish sheet - Fishipedia
Nov 26, 2023 · The sailfin molly is found in slow-flowing waters, usually near the shores. It inhabits coastal creeks, streams, and marshy areas where it mainly feeds on ...
[39]
https://takecareoftexas.org/sites/default/files/publication_files/gi-34-0509.pdf
[40]
[PDF] T E X A S C O M M I S S I O N O ...
Sailfin Molly ... ▽ Pollution tolerance—tolerant, high numbers con- sidered indicator of very ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[41]
https://tropicalstudies.org/rbt/attachments/volumes/vol21-2/13-Baird-Poecilia.pdf
[42]
[PDF] Aspects of social behavior in Poecilia latipinna
Agressíve and courtship behavioral patterns are prominent in the repertoire of Poecilia latipinna, a smaJ] poecilíid fish of shallow subtropical.
[43]
(PDF) An evaluation of water pollution in the wadi hanefah, a natural ...
Aug 6, 2025 · SOD activity was increased by 52.8% in the kidney, 61.3% in the liver and 18.2% in the heart of P. latipinna from WH, whereas a significant ...
[44]
Trade-offs between salinity preference and antipredator behaviour ...
Mar 22, 2016 · As expected, P. latipinna preferred fresh water over salt water. This is not surprising since P. latipinna is found in mostly FW habitats, with ...
[45]
Acquired Resistance of Black Mollies Poecilia Latipinna to Infection ...
Changes in the response of black mollies Poecilia latipinna to infection with Ichthyophthirius multifiliis subsequent to single I. multifiliis infections ...Missing: sailfin | Show results with:sailfin
[46]
A Note on Lernaea Cyprinacea (Crustacea, Copepoda, Lernaeidae ...
The sub-cylindrical body of the parasite was unsegmented with four cephalic horns around the mouth and two egg sacs posteriorly (Fig. 2). Most of the parasites ...
[47]
Comparison of parasite communities in native and introduced ...
Aug 10, 2025 · Request PDF | Comparison of parasite communities in native and introduced populations ... parasites in Sailfin and Amazon mollies). Since ...
[48]
[PDF] Sailfin Molly Husbandry - FIU Research
Oct 10, 2015 · In laboratory conditions, a desirable temperature range for stock tanks is 26-29°C. However, temperatures in experimental aquaria should be.Missing: tolerance | Show results with:tolerance
[49]
Growth parameters of Poecilia latipinna (Lesueur, 1821 ...
Sep 2, 2021 · This work is one of the first studies on the growth of Poecilia latipinna outside its natural habitat. The objective of our study was to ...
[50]
Sailfin Molly Care - Poecilia latipinna - Aqua-Fish.Net
Sep 14, 2025 · Recommended pH range: 7.2 - 8.2. Recommended water hardness: 4 - 20°N ... Best around 20–30 °C; can tolerate hot spells but needs high oxygen and ...
[51]
[PDF] Effects of Habitat and Body Size on Mortality Rates of Poecilia ...
Feb 14, 2003 · Cold- temperature stress has been implicated as a causal agent in high overwintering mortality rates in several species of cyprinodontid fishes ...
[52]
Phenotypic plasticity in the sailfin molly III: Geographic variation in ...
Finally, male and female mollies differ in development patterns; while females continue to grow after sexual maturity, males do not (Travis et al., 1989).
[53]
(PDF) Studies on Feeding Ecology of Sailfin Molly (Poecilia latipinna ...
Aug 10, 2025 · Feeding ecology of sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna), an introduced fish species, was studied. Food items recovered from the stomach of ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[54]
Using video playback to study the effect of an audience on male ...
In this study we ask whether an audience male influences the sexual behaviors of a focal male, the correlated feeding time reduction of female Poecilia ...Missing: diet | Show results with:diet
[55]
Studies on Feeding Ecology of Sailfin Molly (Poecilia latipinna ...
Food items recovered from the stomach of fishes exclusively indicated that it is a herbivorous fish.
[56]
Aquarium Fish Constipation - Chewy
Apr 30, 2025 · Preventing constipation in fish is easy and inexpensive. Herbivorous fish should simply be fed a lot of green foods instead of pellets or flakes ...
[57]
Proper Fish Diet: Don't Forget Your Vegetables - LiveAquaria
Vegetable foods such as seaweed and spirulina algae provide the necessary vitamins, minerals, vegetable proteins, and amino acids for proper growth and a ...
[58]
Poecilia latipinna - jstor
1982:296-304. . 1985. Size and morphological variation in males of the sailfin molly, Poecilia latipinna. Env.
[59]
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/288752381
[60]
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/258510339_SURVEY_ON_PHOTOPERIODIC_AND_SEXUAL_RATIO_EFFECTS_ON_REPRODUCTION_OF_POECILIA_LATIPINNA
[61]
SURVEY ON PHOTOPERIODIC AND SEXUAL RATIO EFFECTS ON ...
This project focused on the new method of reproducing of fish which is named sail fin molly (Poecilia latipinna). Photoperiodic and sexual ratio effects on ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[62]
Polygenic Inheritance of Background Body Colour in Hybrids of ...
This study was attempted to understand the inheritance of background body colour between crosses of Poecilia latipinna (non-black) and Poecilia sphenops (black) ...
[63]
[PDF] Inter-species hybridization among molly (Poecilia Sp.) species
The study used three molly species, P. latipinna, P. velifera, and P. sphenops, and seven breeding crosses, including four parental and three hybrid crosses.
[64]
The possibility of molly (Poecilia latipinna) and guppy (Poecilia ...
The possibility of molly (Poecilia latipinna) and guppy (Poecilia reticulata) hybridization And investigation of growth and reproduction indices next ...
[65]
How to look after guppies and mollies - OATA
It is recommended that an aquarium of at least 45 litres for a small group of the smaller species and at least an 80 litre aquarium for sailfin mollies. However ...
[66]
Velvet/Oödinium - Fritz Aquatics
Velvet is one of the more common diseases in aquarium fish and can quickly strike down every inhabitant in the tank before the owner realizes what he or she is ...
[67]
Livebearers - Dan's Fish
5.0 35 · $39.99 deliveryPrice: $29.99. Available: 5. Add to Cart. Copper Sailfin Molly, Pair (1M1F) · Aquarium Bred and Raised · Poecilia sp. Price: $29.99.
[68]
Black Sailfin Molly (Pair) - Aquarium Fish Online
In stock Free delivery over $169Black Sailfin Molly (Pair). Regular price $12.99. Regular price Sale price $12.99 ... The Black Sailfin Molly is a popular species of freshwater fish often kept ...
[69]
Poecilia latipinna
Sailfin Mollies (Poecilia latipinna) are small live-bearing fish native to the Gulf Coast and the East Coast from the Cape Fear drainage in North Carolina ...Missing: anatomy | Show results with:anatomy
[70]
Sailfin Molly (Poecilia latipinna) - Species Profile
Sep 29, 2011 · (1991), Menhinick (1991), and Page and Burr (1991); a formerly used name is Mollienesia latipinna (Miller 1983). Miller (1983) gave a key to ...
[71]
Ecological Risk Screening Summary - Sailfin Molly (Poecilia latipinna)
Aug 6, 2024 · Aquatic invasive species cause tremendous harm to our environment, our economy, and our health. They can drive out and eat native plants and ...
[72]
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0240623
[73]
Coastal restoration evaluated using dominant habitat characteristics ...
Oct 22, 2020 · Coastal development and population growth negatively affect estuarine habitat quality; development increases ... (Poecilia latipinna). At RP ...
[74]
(PDF) Assessing the Link Between Coastal Urbanization and the ...
Aug 6, 2025 · Palaemonetes shrimp were the only taxon in significantly poorer condition in urban tributaries. For Poecilia latipinna, there was no ...
[75]
[PDF] Fish detection by environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding ...
Aug 30, 2024 · The future of eDNA analysis in estuarine areas is promising, offering a powerful tool for monitoring and managing these complex ecosystems. eDNA.
[76]
Survey of fishes within a restored mangrove habitat of a subtropical ...
Oct 5, 2020 · Mangroves provide essential habitat for juvenile fish species. Restoration and monitoring are important conservation tools to ensure the ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[77]
Habitats: The Key to Florida's Fisheries | Season 13 | Episode 1304
Nov 1, 2021 · Both species rely on mangrove creeks and ponds when they are juveniles. With half of the state's mangroves lost to development, scientists employ creative ...
[78]
[PDF] Staff Summary for February 16-17, 2022 - CA.gov
Dec 7, 2021 · While impacts associated with agricultural runoff may negatively affect the long-term habitat ... Sailfin Molly and other non-native fishes; (5) ...
[79]
[PDF] Ecosystem consequences of fish parasites*
Like fishing, pollution is a stress that can affect the food web, indirectly altering parasite communities. Eutrophication and thermal effluent often raise.
[80]
Rising Sea Levels Could Accelerate Florida Bay Mangrove Loss
Aug 14, 2019 · Current rates of sea-level rise combined with increasing climate variability could accelerate the loss of mangrove-lined coastlines, according to new USGS ...Missing: percentage destruction
[81]
(PDF) Risk assessment of the ornamental fish trade in Mexico
Sep 30, 2015 · Nearly 43 million freshwater ornamental fish of different species and varieties are annually commercialized in Mexico and there is a high ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[82]
Superintendent's Compendium - Everglades National Park (U.S. ...
Sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna). Pipefishes/Seahorses - Syngnathidae. Whitenose pipefish (Cosmocampus albirostris) Lined seahorse (Hippocampus erectus)
[83]
Mangrove Restoration - Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation
SCCF is dedicated to restoring and protecting mangrove habitats through community-driven initiatives and restoration projects that support coastal resilience. “ ...
[84]
Historic Mangrove Restoration Project Breaks Ground ... - Rookery Bay
64 acres of dead mangrove trees and 159 acres of dying and critically damaged forest will be brought back to life decades after roads cut off tidal flows.
[85]
Large-Scale Natural Disturbance Alters Genetic Population ...
Despite this extensive geographical range, Poecilia latipinna populations typically display a strong pattern of genetic spatial autocorrelation (Trexler 1988), ...Missing: subspecies | Show results with:subspecies