Balloon Molly
Poecilia sphenops var.
Minimum Tank
20 Gallons
Adult Size
3 inches
Temperature
72-82°F (22-28°C)
pH Range
7.5-8.5
Lifespan
3 years
School Size
4+ fish
About Balloon Molly
The balloon molly is a selectively bred variety of the common molly with a dramatically rounded, compressed body shape caused by a shortened spine. This unusual body form divides opinion in the hobby, with some keepers finding them charming and others expressing welfare concerns about the deformity. Balloon mollies come in all the color varieties of standard mollies, including black, gold, dalmatian, and white. Their rounded shape gives them a wobbling, somewhat labored swimming style that is distinctly different from normal mollies. Despite their altered body shape, balloon mollies are active and social fish that interact normally with other tankmates and breed readily.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 20-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- • pH: 7.5 - 8.5
- • Category: Livebearer
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Balloon mollies require the same care as standard mollies but are somewhat more susceptible to swim bladder issues due to their compressed body shape. Keep them in hard, alkaline water at 75-82°F with a touch of aquarium salt if other tankmates tolerate it. Avoid strong currents that may challenge their altered swimming ability. Feed small, frequent meals rather than large ones to reduce swim bladder strain, using quality flakes, micro-pellets, and plenty of vegetable matter. Monitor closely for signs of swim bladder disorder and constipation. Provide gentle filtration and plenty of resting spots near plants and decorations.
Quick Facts
76L
Min Tank (20gal)
8cm
Adult Size (3")
3yr
Lifespan
4+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Balloon Molly
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Molly
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Swordtail
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Endler's Livebearer
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Tank Mates for Balloon Molly
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Molly
Poecilia sphenops
easy · 20+ gal
Swordtail
Xiphophorus hellerii
easy · 20+ gal
Rubber Lip Pleco
Chaetostoma sp.
moderate · 20+ gal
Ghost Shrimp
Palaemonetes paludosus
easy · 10+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other moderate-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Balloon Molly need?
A Balloon Molly needs a minimum tank size of 20 gallons (76 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 4.
What water parameters does a Balloon Molly need?
Balloon Molly thrive in water between 72-82°F (22-28°C) with a pH of 7.5-8.5.
Are Balloon Molly easy to care for?
Balloon Molly are considered moderate to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 3 years.
How big do Balloon Molly get and what do they eat?
Balloon Molly reach about 3 inches and are omnivores. Balloon mollies require the same care as standard mollies but are somewhat more susceptible to swim bladder issues due to their compressed body shape. Keep them in hard, alkaline water at 75-82°F with a touch of aquarium salt if other tankmates tolerate it. Avoid strong currents that may challenge their altered swimming ability. Feed small, frequent meals rather than large ones to reduce swim bladder strain, using quality flakes, micro-pellets, and plenty of vegetable matter. Monitor closely for signs of swim bladder disorder and constipation. Provide gentle filtration and plenty of resting spots near plants and decorations.