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Balloon Sailfin Molly

Balloon Sailfin Molly

Posted by Max Gandara on on 16th Jul 2025

Balloon Sailfin Molly – A Unique and Playful Beauty for Community Aquariums

If you're searching for a peaceful, colorful, and eye-catching fish that thrives in community tanks, the Balloon Sailfin Molly is an excellent choice. With its distinct balloon-shaped body and flowing sail-like dorsal fin, this livebearer is both charming and easy to care for — perfect for hobbyists of all experience levels.

Origins & Natural Habitat

The Sailfin Molly (Poecilia latipinna) originates from the brackish and freshwater marshes, streams, and coastal areas of the southeastern United States, particularly around the Gulf of Mexico. The Balloon variant is a selectively bred strain known for its rounded, arched body shape — giving it the "balloon" appearance that sets it apart from standard mollies.

Appearance

The Balloon Sailfin Molly is defined by:

  • A rounded, compact body shape

  • A large, flowing dorsal fin (especially prominent in males)

  • A wide range of color variations, including black, white, orange, gold dust, dalmatian, and marble

  • Size: typically 2.5 to 4 inches, with females slightly larger than males

Their striking profiles and gliding swimming style make them standout additions in planted or community tanks.

Behavior & Temperament

Balloon Sailfin Mollies are peaceful, active, and social. They do well in groups of 3 or more and are best kept in community tanks with other gentle species like:

  • Platies

  • Guppies

  • Swordtails

  • Corydoras

  • Tetras (non-fin-nipping types)

They’re very interactive and often swim near the surface or mid-level of the tank.

Aquarium Requirements

  • Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum

  • Water Temperature: 72–82°F

  • pH: 7.0–8.5

  • Water Hardness: Moderate to hard

  • Salinity: Tolerant of brackish conditions; a small amount of aquarium salt can be beneficial

  • Tank Setup: Well-planted tank with open swimming space; smooth gravel or sand substrate recommended

Mollies enjoy slightly alkaline, mineral-rich water and benefit from consistent water quality and regular maintenance.

Diet

Balloon Sailfin Mollies are omnivores, and a varied diet will keep them vibrant and healthy. Feed them:

  • High-quality flakes or micro pellets

  • Algae-based wafers or spirulina

  • Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, peas)

  • Occasional live or frozen treats like brine shrimp or bloodworms

Breeding

Like all livebearers, Balloon Sailfin Mollies give birth to free-swimming fry. Females can produce 20–100 fry every few weeks. For fry survival:

  • Provide plenty of hiding places (plants, spawning grass)

  • Use a breeding box or move pregnant females to a nursery tank

  • Feed newborns powdered fry food or baby brine shrimp

Final Thoughts

With their distinctive body shape, graceful sailfin, and gentle nature, Balloon Sailfin Mollies bring personality and beauty to any peaceful freshwater aquarium. Easy to care for and breed, they’re a great fit for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.