Tank setup
Size the aquarium to Balloon Molly's adult size and activity level. Match décor to natural behaviour — plants, rockwork, or open swimming room as needed.
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Freshwater Fish
Livebearers & Carps
Common
Poecilia sphenops (deformed variety)
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What to know before you buy.
The Balloon Molly is a selectively bred variant of the common molly, featuring a shortened, rounded body. This physical deformity gives them a unique, balloon-like appearance and a wobbly swimming style. They share the peaceful nature and hardiness of their ancestors but require care to ensure they are not outcompeted for food.
Key traits
Select a tank to see how this species fits.
Everything you need to keep Balloon Molly healthy in a South African setup.
Size the aquarium to Balloon Molly's adult size and activity level. Match décor to natural behaviour — plants, rockwork, or open swimming room as needed.
Keep pH 7.5–8.5 and 23–28°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers — acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Balloon Molly is an omnivore. Feed a varied diet appropriate for freshwater fish — quality flakes, pellets, or frozen foods sized to the mouth.
Balloon Molly is generally peaceful. Observe during feeding and at lights-out for true temperament.
Pair with similarly sized peaceful tankmates in freshwater fish. Avoid fin-nippers or species that outgrow this fish.
Breeding notes for Balloon Molly vary by line and water chemistry — ask your local shop about proven pairs in SA.
From hobbyists across SA.
Price trends and buyer demand — data only FishHub tracks.
SA price range this month: R55–95 · Average: R65
This data is unique to FishHub
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Species that typically work alongside Balloon Molly in a similar setup.
Molly
Poecilia sphenops
Guppy
Poecilia reticulata
Koi
Cyprinus rubrofuscus
Lionhead Goldfish
Carassius auratus
Oranda
Carassius auratus
Veiltail Goldfish
Carassius auratus
Shubunkin
Carassius auratus
Jikin Goldfish
Carassius auratus