{"product_id":"assorted-balloon-molly-poecilia-latipinna","title":"Assorted Balloon Molly - Poecilia latipinna","description":"\u003ch1 data-section-id=\"1n7ac8m\" data-start=\"572\" data-end=\"619\"\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003eAssorted Balloon Molly – \u003cem data-start=\"599\" data-end=\"619\"\u003ePoecilia latipinna\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"77mjg\" data-start=\"621\" data-end=\"633\"\u003eOverview:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"634\" data-end=\"1135\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"638\" data-end=\"664\"\u003eAssorted Balloon Molly\u003c\/strong\u003e is a colourful fancy livebearer with a compact rounded body and a mix of possible colours, including black, white, gold, orange, dalmatian, marble and mixed-pattern forms. Listed here as \u003cstrong data-start=\"852\" data-end=\"874\"\u003ePoecilia latipinna\u003c\/strong\u003e, it should be cared for as a molly that prefers warm, hard, alkaline water and a vegetable-rich diet. Although peaceful and popular for community aquariums, Balloon Mollies are best kept in well-maintained setups rather than cramped or unstable beginner tanks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"18rclky\" data-start=\"1137\" data-end=\"1159\"\u003eKey Identification:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1160\" data-end=\"1479\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1160\" data-end=\"1176\"\u003eCommon Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Assorted Balloon Molly\u003cbr data-start=\"1199\" data-end=\"1202\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1202\" data-end=\"1218\"\u003eOther Names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Balloon Molly, Balloon Belly Molly, Short Body Molly, Assorted Fancy Molly, Balloon Sailfin Molly\u003cbr data-start=\"1316\" data-end=\"1319\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1319\" data-end=\"1339\"\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-start=\"1340\" data-end=\"1360\"\u003ePoecilia latipinna\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1360\" data-end=\"1363\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1363\" data-end=\"1377\"\u003eFish Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Livebearer \/ Molly\u003cbr data-start=\"1396\" data-end=\"1399\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1399\" data-end=\"1414\"\u003eWater Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Freshwater; naturally tolerant of slightly brackish conditions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"13oemwk\" data-start=\"1481\" data-end=\"1508\"\u003eNatural Range \u0026amp; Habitat:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1509\" data-end=\"1857\"\u003eWild \u003cem data-start=\"1514\" data-end=\"1534\"\u003ePoecilia latipinna\u003c\/em\u003e is native to the south-eastern United States and Mexico, from the Cape Fear drainage in North Carolina southwards to Veracruz. It occurs in still or gently flowing warm waters, including creeks, drains, ponds, lakes, sloughs, vegetated backwaters, tidal ditches and brackish canals. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1859\" data-end=\"2099\"\u003eThe Assorted Balloon Molly is a domesticated aquarium strain, so it does not represent a wild-type fish. Its care should be based on the natural molly preference for warm, clean, mineral-rich water with plenty of plant and algae-based food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1k4fj4a\" data-start=\"2101\" data-end=\"2128\"\u003eAppearance \u0026amp; Adult Size:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2129\" data-end=\"2447\"\u003eAssorted Balloon Mollies have a shortened, rounded body shape that gives them their “balloon” appearance. Colour varies by batch and may include solid, spotted, marbled, dalmatian, gold, black, silver, orange or mixed forms. Males are usually slimmer and have a gonopodium, while females are rounder-bodied and larger.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2449\" data-end=\"2763\"\u003eMost Balloon Mollies reach around \u003cstrong data-start=\"2483\" data-end=\"2493\"\u003e5–8 cm\u003c\/strong\u003e in aquariums. Standard \u003cem data-start=\"2517\" data-end=\"2537\"\u003ePoecilia latipinna\u003c\/em\u003e can grow larger, with FishBase listing maximum sizes up to \u003cstrong data-start=\"2597\" data-end=\"2609\"\u003e15 cm TL\u003c\/strong\u003e for males or unsexed fish and \u003cstrong data-start=\"2640\" data-end=\"2652\"\u003e10 cm TL\u003c\/strong\u003e for females, but balloon strains are typically shorter and more compact. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"zee6g1\" data-start=\"2765\" data-end=\"2789\"\u003eAquarium Suitability:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2790\" data-end=\"3121\"\u003eThis fish is best suited to peaceful hard-water community aquariums, livebearer setups and planted tanks with stable conditions. Provide open swimming space, plant cover, floating plants, gentle to moderate flow and good filtration. Because of the compact body shape, avoid rough communities, strong bullying and overcrowded tanks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3123\" data-end=\"3289\"\u003eBalloon Mollies are not suitable for very soft acidic aquariums, aggressive cichlid setups, fin-nipping communities or newly set-up tanks with unstable water quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1jzuw08\" data-start=\"3291\" data-end=\"3320\"\u003eRecommended Aquarium Size:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3321\" data-end=\"3649\"\u003eA practical minimum is \u003cstrong data-start=\"3344\" data-end=\"3379\"\u003e90–120 litres for a small group\u003c\/strong\u003e, with \u003cstrong data-start=\"3386\" data-end=\"3408\"\u003e120 litres or more\u003c\/strong\u003e preferred for mixed-sex groups or community aquariums. Although Balloon Mollies are shorter than standard Sailfin Mollies, they still produce a noticeable waste load and need stable water, so larger aquariums are easier and safer long term.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"pl4gsq\" data-start=\"3651\" data-end=\"3671\"\u003eWater Conditions:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3672\" data-end=\"4304\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3672\" data-end=\"3688\"\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24–28°C\u003cbr data-start=\"3696\" data-end=\"3699\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3699\" data-end=\"3706\"\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e 7.2–8.5\u003cbr data-start=\"3714\" data-end=\"3717\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3717\" data-end=\"3730\"\u003eHardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hard to very hard preferred\u003cbr data-start=\"3758\" data-end=\"3761\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3761\" data-end=\"3782\"\u003eAdditional Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mollies should be kept in mineral-rich, alkaline water. Seriously Fish states that \u003cem data-start=\"3866\" data-end=\"3880\"\u003eP. latipinna\u003c\/em\u003e should be maintained in moderately hard or harder water with a basic pH, as it weakens quickly in soft or acidic conditions. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e Fishkeeper lists Sailfin Molly care at \u003cstrong data-start=\"4083\" data-end=\"4094\"\u003e22–28°C\u003c\/strong\u003e, pH \u003cstrong data-start=\"4099\" data-end=\"4110\"\u003e7.5–8.5\u003c\/strong\u003e and hardness \u003cstrong data-start=\"4124\" data-end=\"4136\"\u003e10–20 dH\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e Salt is not essential in a properly mineralised freshwater aquarium, but the species is naturally tolerant of brackish habitats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"3rlnm7\" data-start=\"4306\" data-end=\"4334\"\u003eTemperament \u0026amp; Tank Mates:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4335\" data-end=\"4374\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4335\" data-end=\"4357\"\u003eAquarium Category:\u003c\/strong\u003e Community Fish\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4376\" data-end=\"4643\"\u003eAssorted Balloon Mollies are peaceful but active livebearers. Suitable tank mates include platies, swordtails, other mollies, small to medium rainbowfish, peaceful barbs, larger danios, bristlenose plecs and other calm fish that enjoy hard, neutral to alkaline water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4645\" data-end=\"4989\"\u003eAvoid soft-water species that need acidic conditions, large predators, aggressive cichlids, persistent fin-nippers and very boisterous fish that may outcompete them. Keep in groups, ideally with \u003cstrong data-start=\"4840\" data-end=\"4875\"\u003eone male to two or more females\u003c\/strong\u003e if mixed sexes are kept, as males may chase females. Male-only groups can also work where breeding is not wanted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1ah6yd9\" data-start=\"4991\" data-end=\"5002\"\u003eFeeding:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5003\" data-end=\"5481\"\u003eAssorted Balloon Mollies are omnivores with a strong need for plant and algae-based foods. Offer quality livebearer flakes, spirulina flakes, small granules and algae wafers as the staple diet. Supplement with frozen or live foods such as daphnia, brineshrimp, cyclops, mosquito larvae and occasional bloodworm. FishBase records wild \u003cem data-start=\"5337\" data-end=\"5351\"\u003eP. latipinna\u003c\/em\u003e feeding mainly on algae, with additional rotifers, small crustaceans and aquatic insects. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5483\" data-end=\"5625\"\u003eFor Balloon Mollies, avoid heavy feeding of rich dry foods only; a varied, vegetable-led diet helps support digestion and long-term condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"2vr35r\" data-start=\"5627\" data-end=\"5656\"\u003eBehaviour in the Aquarium:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5657\" data-end=\"5997\"\u003eThis is a sociable livebearer that spends much of its time in the middle and upper levels, grazing, exploring and interacting with other mollies. Males display to females and may spar mildly with rival males. Females give birth to free-swimming fry rather than laying eggs, and fry may survive in planted aquariums if there is enough cover.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"gyou4p\" data-start=\"5999\" data-end=\"6013\"\u003eCare Notes:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6014\" data-end=\"6497\"\u003eKeep Assorted Balloon Mollies in mature, stable water with strong filtration and regular water changes. The balloon body shape can make them more vulnerable to poor water quality, constipation and stress, so avoid overcrowding and rough tank mates. Provide vegetable matter in the diet, maintain good oxygenation and do not keep them in soft acidic water. A secure lid is recommended, as active livebearers may jump. If breeding is not wanted, keep males only or have a plan for fry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"iot6fl\" data-start=\"6499\" data-end=\"6518\"\u003eRecommended For:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6519\" data-end=\"6543\"\u003eBeginner to intermediate\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1c7763y\" data-start=\"6545\" data-end=\"6561\"\u003eAvailability:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6562\" data-end=\"6596\"\u003eCommon \/ Captive-bred fancy strain\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1x39ni3\" data-start=\"6598\" data-end=\"6618\"\u003eImage Disclaimer:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6619\" data-end=\"6873\"\u003eAll images are a visual representation of the fish you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Assorted colour forms vary naturally, and differences in size, body shape, colour, pattern, fin shape and markings can occur between individual fish.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Warehouse Aquatics","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":43694755283018,"sku":"AG-103043","price":3.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":43694755315786,"sku":"AG-103044","price":4.45,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large","offer_id":43694755348554,"sku":"AG-103045","price":4.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0623\/1877\/2298\/files\/AssortedBalloonMolly-Poecilialatipinna_1.jpg?v=1781194401","url":"https:\/\/warehouse-aquatics.co.uk\/products\/assorted-balloon-molly-poecilia-latipinna","provider":"Warehouse Aquatics","version":"1.0","type":"link"}