Balloon Molly Molly
Poecilia sphenops
About this strain
Immediately recognizable by its dramatically rounded, shortened body — the deep belly curve is the result of a spinal curvature mutation that compresses the body shape, not disease. Available in several color forms including black, dalmatian, gold, and white. The exaggerated body shape is controversial in the hobby; the fish are fully viable and breed true, but the compressed anatomy can make them slightly more susceptible to digestive issues and swim bladder problems. Feed smaller, more frequent meals and avoid dry food that expands excessively. Despite the debate, Balloon Mollies remain widely popular and are genuinely peaceful community fish.
Origin
The balloon body mutation was first fixed in commercial breeding programs in Southeast Asia in the 1990s, with various color-form Balloon Mollies reaching international markets by the early 2000s.