Balloon Molly

Poecilia latipinna var. Balloon

The Balloon Molly is a controversial fish: its "balloon" shape is actually a very severe spinal deformity (dwarfism and severe scoliosis) artificially fixed by breeders. This squat shape has horribly compressed the fish's internal organs. They have a laborious and wobbly swim, and chronically suffer from intestinal blockages and swim bladder problems. Females are particularly at risk: the compressed uterus makes giving birth a mortal agony. Requires nursing care: micro pre-soaked feeding, and no aggressive tankmates.

Family: Poeciliidae
Origin: Aberrazione genetica selezionata artificialmente per scopi ornamentali. (Specie base: Sud degli Stati Uniti).
Tank use: Used in 0 tanks

Temperature

22 °C - 28 °C

7.5 - 8.5

Water type

Freshwater

Tank level

Surface and middle

Adult size

8 cm

Description

The Obstetric Tomb (Blocked Labor Futile Deaf Mute):

Balloon Molly females are genetically predisposed to dystocia (obstructed labor). When they fill up with dozens of fry, their distorted spine prevents correct contractions. There is a very high probability that the mother will die exploding internally.

Care and observations

Fatal Compression (Digestive Asphyxia Futile Blind):

The intestine of this fish is a crushed labyrinth. If you give them dry pellets, these will absorb water swelling in the stomach. Having no internal space, the stomach will expand pressing against the swim bladder. In half an hour you will see the Balloon Molly floating upside down or falling to the bottom unable to swim. The only allowed food is flakes pre-soaked in a glass before administration.

Fish profile

Temperament: Pacifico, nuoto lento e impacciato. Vulnerabile a pesci aggressivi.
Diet: Micro-pasti frequenti. Solo cibo umido o fiocchi pre-ammollati per evitare blocchi intestinali.
Tank level: Surface and middle
Adult size: 8 cm
GH: 15 dGH - 30 dGH
KH: n/a
TDS: n/a
Conductivity: n/a

Image gallery

Licensed images linked to the species or, when marked, to the closest representative taxon.

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