Lyretail trait in Mollies

[DougL]

My fish question relates to Lyretail Black Molly genetics. My female is producing a mix of standard and Lyretail fry. Is this the result of dominant/recessive genes, or simply multiple previous mates? Is it possible to have Lyretails breed completely true? Many thanks.

[muffin]

I don't know all that much about the genetics of the tail shape of the Lyretail Molly. but I do know that mollies, as well as other live bearers, can store sperm for some time. With that said, you batch of fry may actually have have multiple fathers. Some of the fry's father may have a lyretail, while the others do not.
I hope that this helps out a little and that someone who raises mollies can help you out a little more witht his. Possibly an experienced breeder.