Balloon Molly Black

The Black Balloon Molly is a captive-bred variety of Poecilia sphenops in which two selective breeding traits have been combined: the jet-black melanistic colouration that absorbs light and appears almost velvet-like, and the balloon body mutation that shortens the spine and rounds the abdomen into a distinctive pot-bellied silhouette. The rounded body shape combined with the intense black creates a striking visual contrast to other community fish. Balloon Mollies are peaceful, sociable, and relatively hardy livebearers well-suited to beginner fishkeepers, though they require harder, more alkaline water than many tropical fish. The balloon body mutation means these fish are less physically robust than standard mollies and should be kept with only gentle tankmates.

Maintain in slightly alkaline, moderately hard water (pH 7.5–8.5, GH 12–25). Keep in groups with more females than males (at least 2:1) to reduce male harassment of individual females. Feed a varied diet including flakes, micro pellets, and occasional frozen foods. The balloon body form is prone to swim bladder issues if fed exclusively floating flakes — supplement with sinking foods. Perform regular water changes.