Description
Platinum Lyretail Balloon Molly (Poecilia sphenops)
The Platinum Lyretail Balloon Molly is a selectively bred variety of Poecilia sphenops, prized for its stunning metallic silver coloration, elegant lyre-shaped tail, and distinctive rounded body form. This livebearing fish is popular among aquarists for its peaceful temperament, lively swimming behaviour, and shimmering appearance that adds brightness to any aquarium.
The “balloon” body shape results from a genetic modification that shortens the spine, giving the fish its compact, arched profile.
Features of Platinum Lyretail Balloon Molly
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Grows up to 6–8 cm in length
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Rounded body with a pronounced arch and short snout
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Striking platinum-white or silvery sheen that reflects light beautifully
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Distinctive lyre-shaped tail fin with elongated upper and lower lobes
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Livebearer; females give birth to free-swimming fry
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Peaceful and social species that thrives in groups
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Lifespan ranges from 3–5 years with proper care
Best Aquarium Size for Platinum Lyretail Balloon Molly
A minimum of 60 litres is recommended for a small group of 3–5 individuals. Larger aquariums (100 litres or more) are ideal for maintaining stable water conditions, reducing stress, and providing ample swimming space.
Include both open swimming areas and well-planted zones to give the fish comfort and security.
Tank Mate Compatibility
Good tank mates for the Platinum Lyretail 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 fish, as their elongated fins can make them targets.
Diet for Platinum Lyretail Balloon Molly
Platinum Lyretail Balloon Mollies are omnivorous and require a balanced diet for optimal health and coloration.
Provide:
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High-quality flakes or micro pellets as a staple food
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Blanched vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or peas
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Spirulina-based foods to enhance colour and vitality
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Occasional treats of live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms
A varied diet supports bright colour, good energy levels, and strong immunity.
Aquarium Setup for Platinum Lyretail Balloon Molly
Filtration
Use a gentle yet efficient internal or hang-on-back filter. Mollies produce moderate waste, so effective biological and mechanical filtration is important.
Plants
Live plants such as Java Fern, Anubias, Vallisneria, and Hornwort work well.
Plants provide shade, improve water quality, and offer hiding places for fry.
Lighting
Moderate lighting is ideal to highlight their reflective platinum coloration and support healthy plant growth.
Avoid excessively bright lighting that may stress the fish or promote algae growth.
Heating
Maintain a steady temperature between 24–27 °C.
Use a reliable heater with a thermostat and prevent sudden temperature changes.
Substrate
Choose fine gravel or sand as the substrate.
The smooth texture prevents fin damage and creates a natural-looking environment.
Decorations
Add smooth rocks, driftwood, and live plants to create a balanced and visually appealing aquascape.
Avoid sharp decorations that may injure their fins or delicate body shape.
Provide open swimming areas, particularly in the middle and upper regions of the tank.
