MOLLY GOLD LEOPARD BALLOON MOLLY 3CM

Gold Leopard Balloon Molly (Poecilia sphenops or related hybrids, balloon morph) is a selectively bred livebearer with a gold/orange base colour and black leopard-like spotting, plus the characteristic rounded, shortened body.

Mollies need hard, alkaline water. Soft or acidic conditions commonly cause “shimmies,” poor health, and shortened lifespan.

TANK SET UP: Larger is better for stable parameters and bioload.

• Decor: Open swimming space + dense planting (Java fern, Anubias, Vallisneria, or floating plants). Plants provide cover and surface area for algae they graze.

• Substrate: Sand, fine gravel, or aragonite/crushed coral (helps buffer hardness and pH).

TANK MATE: Good with other peaceful, hard-water fish of similar size:

• Platies, guppies, swordtails, endlers

• Corydoras, some hardy tetras that tolerate alkaline water

• Snails (nerites, mystery)

• Larger shrimp (with caution — fry will eat tiny shrimp)

AVOID: aggressive fish, fin-nippers, or species that prefer soft acidic water. Balloon mollies are slower and can be outcompeted for food.

NOTE:

• Keep a group (ideally 1 male: 2–3 females) to reduce male harassment.

FILTRATION: Moderate, gentle flow. Avoid strong currents — their body shape makes them slower/less agile swimmers.

MAINTENANCE: Ammonia/Nitrite 0 ppm; Nitrate <20 ppm. Weekly 20–30% water changes

SYDNEY NOTE: Local tap water is soft (~3 dGH / ~50 ppm). You will need to raise hardness. Practical options:

• Crushed coral or aragonite in the filter or as substrate

• Commercial GH/KH boosters (e.g. products that add calcium/magnesium)

• Optional aquarium salt (many keepers add a small amount, but it is not essential if hardness is adequate)

FEEDING: They are omnivores that need substantial plant matter for digestion.

• Staple: Quality flakes or micro-pellets formulated for livebearers or with spirulina/algae as a major ingredient.

• Plant foods: Algae wafers, spirulina flakes, blanched spinach, zucchini, cucumber, or shelled peas (excellent for fibre).

• Protein supplements (occasional): Frozen or live brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms.

• Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily