The wild fish can exhibit several different types of patterning. P. latipinna has been selectively bred into many different colour morphs for the aquarium trade, and has also been crossbred with other molly species, particularly P. sphenops. They will also interbreed readily in the aquarium and in order to avoid this we suggest keeping only one species of molly per tank. There also exists a (in our opinion) grotesque ‘balloon’ variety of this fish in which the body is malformed and rounded, giving a balloon-like appearance. This condition can cause swimbladder and digestive problems and may bring about premature death. The wild fish can also exhibit several different types of patterning although it is rarely seen for sale.
This species is often referred to as a brackish species but can live perfectly well in freshwater provided it is not too soft and acidic.
P. latipinna may be distinguished from the similar P. velifera by the presence of dark rectangular spots in the dorsal fin. In P. velifera these are lighter-coloured and round.
This is another of the livebearer species to have been introduced in many countries where it often outcompetes native species and upsets the ecological balance.