Description
Black & Gold Balloon Molly (Poecilia sphenops)
The Black & Gold Balloon Molly is a selectively bred variant of Poecilia sphenops, admired for its striking contrast of deep black and shimmering gold coloration combined with a distinctive rounded body shape. This livebearing fish is a favourite among aquarists due to its peaceful temperament, active swimming behaviour, and elegant appearance.
The “balloon” body form results from a genetic modification that shortens the spine, giving the fish a compact, arched profile.
Features of Black & Gold Balloon Molly
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Grows up to 6–8 cm in length
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Distinctive rounded body with a deep arch and short snout
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Attractive black and golden-yellow coloration, often marbled or patched
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Livebearer; females give birth to free-swimming fry
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Peaceful and social; thrives best in groups
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Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care
Best Aquarium Size for Black & Gold Balloon Molly
A minimum of 60 litres is recommended for a small group (3–5 individuals). Larger tanks (100 litres or more) are ideal for maintaining stable water parameters, reducing territorial behaviour, and providing ample swimming space.
Include both open swimming areas and planted zones to create a comfortable, enriching environment.
Tank Mate Compatibility
Suitable tank mates for the Black & Gold Balloon Molly include:
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Guppies
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Platies
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Corydoras Catfish
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Zebra Danios
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Swordtails
Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species to prevent stress and injury.
Diet for Black & Gold Balloon Molly
Black & Gold Balloon Mollies are omnivorous and thrive on a balanced, varied diet.
Provide:
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High-quality flakes or micro pellets as a staple
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Blanched vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or peas
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Spirulina flakes to enhance colour and vitality
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Occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia
A varied diet supports bright coloration, healthy digestion, and strong immunity.
Aquarium Setup for Black & Gold Balloon Molly
Filtration
Use a gentle but efficient internal or hang-on-back filter. Mollies produce moderate waste, so effective biological and mechanical filtration is essential.
Plants
Live plants such as Java Fern, Anubias, Vallisneria, and Hornwort are excellent choices.
They provide shade, improve water quality, and offer safe hiding spaces for fry.
Lighting
Use moderate lighting to enhance the gold and black contrast while supporting plant growth.
Avoid excessive brightness, which can stress fish or encourage algae.
Heating
Maintain a stable temperature between 24–27 °C.
Use a reliable heater with a thermostat and avoid rapid temperature fluctuations.
Substrate
Opt for fine gravel or sand substrate.
Balloon Mollies don’t dig much, but smooth surfaces help prevent fin or belly irritation.
Decorations
Include smooth rocks, driftwood, and live plants to create a natural and visually pleasing setup.
Avoid sharp decor that could injure their delicate, rounded bodies.
Leave open swimming areas, particularly in the middle and upper tank levels.
