Star Sapphire Cichlid – A Sparkling Jewel from Lake Malawi
Elevate your aquarium with the mesmerising beauty of the Star Sapphire Cichlid (Placidochromis sp. "phenochilus Tanzania"), a show-stopping species prized for its deep blue body and shimmering, star-like white spots. As males mature, they develop their iconic "sapphire" speckles, creating an eye-catching display that truly lives up to its name.
 
Key Features:
Scientific Name: Placidochromis sp. "phenochilus Tanzania"
Common Name: Star Sapphire Cichlid
Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
Adult Size: 20–25 cm
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Tank Size: Minimum 300 litres
Water Conditions: pH 7.8–8.6 | Temp 24–28°C
 
Why You’ll Love It:
Unique “Star” Patterning: Males develop a brilliant constellation of white spots across a rich blue body – a true visual marvel.
Personality with Presence: Confident yet generally less aggressive than other large haps.
Great for Display Tanks: Best kept with similarly sized Malawi cichlids in a spacious setup.
 
Care Level: Moderate to Advanced
These fish require a roomy, well-filtered tank with open swimming space and rock structures for hiding. A high-quality diet of cichlid pellets, spirulina, and occasional frozen foods helps maintain their health and vibrant appearance.