Balloon Calico Molly (Marble) (Poecilia sphenops)

A Swirling Masterpiece in a Rounded Body

The Balloon Calico Molly (Poecilia sphenops), also known as the Marble Molly, is a visually stunning fancy livebearer that combines the distinctive rounded balloon body form with a rich, unpredictable calico colouration. Each fish displays a unique mosaic of black, white, orange, and gold patches across its body — no two are exactly alike, making every specimen a one-of-a-kind addition to your aquarium.

Hardy, peaceful, and easy to keep, the Balloon Calico Molly is a wonderful choice for community tanks and livebearer enthusiasts alike.

Overview

Appearance

The balloon body gives this molly its signature deep, rounded profile with an arched back — a compact, almost spherical silhouette that sets it apart from standard mollies. The calico (marble) pattern overlays this form with irregular splashes of black, white, orange, and gold that vary from fish to fish. The result is a fish that looks hand-painted, with each individual carrying its own unique pattern.

Water Parameters & Tank Setup

• Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)
• pH: 7.5 – 8.5 (alkaline water preferred)
• General Hardness (GH): 10 – 25 dGH (hard water)
• Tank Size: 75 L (20 gallons) minimum
• Salt: Tolerates and benefits from a small amount of aquarium salt (1 tsp per 10 L); can adapt to brackish conditions
• Filtration: Moderate flow with good oxygenation; mollies are sensitive to poor water quality
• Plants & Decor: Hardy plants like Java fern, Anubias, and Vallisneria; open swimming space appreciated

Diet & Feeding

• Staple: High-quality flake food or pellets with vegetable content
• Treats: Blanched spinach, zucchini, spirulina wafers, baby brine shrimp, and daphnia

Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily. Mollies are omnivores with a strong herbivorous tendency — vegetable-based foods are important for long-term health.

Compatibility & Tank Mates

• Other mollies, platies, and swordtails
• Peaceful community fish of similar size
• Corydoras and peaceful bottom dwellers
• Avoid fin-nipping species

Breeding

Livebearers that breed readily. Females give birth to live fry every 4–6 weeks. Calico fry will display varied colouration patterns from birth. Provide floating plants or a breeding box to protect fry, and feed crushed flake food from day one.

The Balloon Calico Molly is a charming, colourful, and low-maintenance fish that brings personality and natural artistry to any freshwater aquarium. A new arrival — limited stock available.