Assorted Balloon Molly Fish Poecilia Sphenops 3cm

Overview

The Balloon Molly is a selectively bred form of the Short-finned Molly with a rounded, compact body, a high arched back and a mix of colours including black, gold, silver and marbled. It is an active, sociable livebearer from Central America that constantly grazes algae and browses around the tank, often in a loose, chatty group. A good choice for beginners with hard, alkaline water.

• Sold as: Pack of 6 (minimum order quantity)
• Adult Size: Around 5–6 cm (2–2.5 in); females larger than males
• Lifespan: 3–5 years

Origin

• Native to: Mexico, Colombia and Venezuela; balloon form is captive bred
• Habitat: Slow streams, lagoons, ditches and brackish coastal waters

Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous, with a strong vegetable component
• Preferred Foods: Quality flake, spirulina flake, blanched spinach, brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworm
• Feeding Habits: Feed small amounts twice daily; greens or algae wafers most days; vary foods weekly

Tank Mates

• Best with: Platies, guppies, swordtails, Corydoras, rainbowfish, hard-water tetras, other mollies
• Avoid: Fin-nippers, large cichlids, soft-water specialists

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Peaceful, sociable and constantly active
• Territoriality: Low; males chase females and squabble mildly

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Beginner
• Challenges: Needs hard, alkaline, stable water; deformed body makes it prone to swim bladder issues

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, hard and alkaline; tolerates brackish
• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
• pH: 7.0–8.5
• Hardness: 15–30 dGH
• Flow: Slow to moderate
• Tank Size: Minimum 80 litres for a group of six; larger is better, with gentle filtration

Final Notes

Balloon Mollies are prolific livebearers: females drop broods of 20 to 60 fry roughly every eight weeks, so keep at least two females per male and expect numbers to grow. Their shortened spine and rounded body make them less robust than standard mollies and weaker swimmers, so avoid strong currents. Salt is not required but well tolerated. Given hard water and greens they are colourful, busy and easy to keep.