Can Humpbacked Limia and Sailfin Molly Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 11, 2026
Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Humpbacked Limia and Sailfin Molly are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. A minimum tank size of 110 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Humpbacked Limia

Limia nigrofasciata

Sailfin Molly

Poecilia latipinna

🐟Family Group
Humpbacked Limia
Livebearers
Sailfin Molly
Livebearers
Temperament
Humpbacked Limia
Peaceful (2/10)
Sailfin Molly
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Humpbacked Limia
24–28°C
Sailfin Molly
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Humpbacked Limia
7.2–8.5
Sailfin Molly
7.5–8.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Humpbacked Limia
10–25
Sailfin Molly
15–30
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Humpbacked Limia
Freshwater Only
Sailfin Molly
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Humpbacked Limia
Moderate
Sailfin Molly
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 110 L
Humpbacked Limia
75 L
Sailfin Molly
110 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Humpbacked Limia
MiddleTop
Sailfin Molly
TopMiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Humpbacked Limia
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry Predator
Sailfin Molly
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry PredatorAggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Humpbacked Limia and Sailfin Molly?

Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.

Humpbacked Limia
Sailfin Molly
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Behaviour & Temperament

Humpbacked Limia is a peaceful species (2/10), while Sailfin Molly is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Sailfin Molly may occasionally assert dominance over Humpbacked Limia.

Humpbacked Limia and Sailfin Molly both frequent the Middle (Open Water) and Top (Surface) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7.5 and 8.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 15–25 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Humpbacked Limia and Sailfin Molly together, plan for an aquarium of at least 110 litres with a minimum length of 80 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Plants - Densely covered, Established Algae (Otocinclus). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Why This Pairing Works in Practice

Humpbacked Limia and Sailfin Molly work best when the tank gives each fish enough room to use its preferred level of the aquarium and enough cover to avoid constant visual contact. The score matters, but the real-world success usually comes from matching their pace, keeping water stable, and resisting the urge to crowd the tank just because the pair looks safe on paper.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Humpbacked Limia and Sailfin Molly.

Show 12 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Humpbacked Limia and Sailfin Molly live together?

Yes. Humpbacked Limia and Sailfin Molly are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Humpbacked Limia and Sailfin Molly need?

A minimum of 110 litres (tank length at least 80 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.

What water temperature is best for Humpbacked Limia and Sailfin Molly together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Humpbacked Limia or Sailfin Molly aggressive?

Humpbacked Limia is peaceful (2/10) and Sailfin Molly is generally mild-mannered (3/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Humpbacked Limia and Sailfin Molly need?

Both species overlap in the 7.5–8.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
May 11, 2026
Last updated
May 11, 2026
Issues or corrections?
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