Can Molly live with White Cloud Minnow?
Case-by-case. Watch group sizes, tank size, and feeding zones.
Why Molly and White Cloud Minnow Don't Make an Easy Pair
They can coexist, but you need to manage the setup carefully. The temperature margin is tight — only 3°F of safe overlap, which leaves little room for thermostat drift.
Molly
Poecilia sphenops
| Adult Size: | 4.5" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 20 gal |
| Temperature: | 72-82°F |
| pH Range: | 7.0-8.0 |
White Cloud Minnow
Tanichthys albonubes
| Adult Size: | 1.5" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 10 gal |
| Temperature: | 60-75°F |
| pH Range: | 6.0-8.0 |
Water Parameter Overlap
| Parameter | Molly | White Cloud Minnow | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72-82°F | 60-75°F | 3°F ✓ |
| pH | 7.0-8.0 | 6.0-8.0 | 1.0 ✓ |
Compatibility Breakdown
Temperament Match: peaceful + peaceful. Both peaceful → minimal conflict.
⚠️ Size Predation Risk: Molly (4.5") vs White Cloud Minnow (1.5"). A 3.0" gap — the larger fish will view the smaller fish as food.
Score: 50.0/100 (GOOD ≥80, CAUTION ≥50, RISKY <50).
🔧 Tank Setup Requirements (for Both)
- Minimum tank: 20 gallons — sized for the larger fish in the pair.
- Temperature: keep it between 72°F and 75°F.
- pH: maintain 7.0 – 8.0.
- Hiding spots: essential for Molly — caves, plants, or driftwood to retreat when feeling stressed.
- Water changes: 25% weekly minimum. Two species mean double the bioload.
🔧 Tank Stocking Calculator
Enter tank size to calculate safe stocking levels:
Recommended Equipment
Based on tank size 20+ gallons:
Quiet internal filter for 20-gallon tanks
Explore Related Checks
See what else works with these fish:
Accuracy note: This tool uses expert rules + FishBase.org data. Individual fish behavior varies — a peaceful individual Molly may act differently from its species average. Always observe, quarantine new arrivals for 2-4 weeks, and avoid overcrowding. If a pairing says CAUTION, start with a smaller group and a lid.