Balloon Molly Pregnancies

Question
I have a pregnant balloon molly currently in my 20 gallon tank.  I have no experience in fry keeping or anything in that category.  I heard around that most fry in balloon Mollies are born dead, is that true? Also, any info on taking care of fry would be appreciated! Thanks!
-Morgan

Answer
Hi Morgan,
I've never heard of balloon molly not surviving when born. If this is a common problem the cause is likely the parent fish don't have good genetics and the fish have reproductive problems from too much inbreeding.

Taking care of molly fry is easy fortunately. I prefer if the fry are reared in a dedicated tank  like a 10-gallon just for them. They grow much better when kept in decent sized rearing tanks where the water can be filtered as well. Although smaller tanks will do for a while, until the fry outgrow it. Just make sure to do extra water changes. A good basis for a water change schedule is 20% everyday. As for feeding, they can eat immediately upon swimming and they eagerly accept powdered flake food as well as 'special' fry food you can get at your petstore.  Baby brine shrimp (live or frozen) is also a great food for baby fish and helps them grow faster also. Small feedings several times is best.

Its best if the female molly is moved well ahead of time before she gets really huge, into the fry tank.

Best wishes and I really hope this helps!
Karen~