Mirrorball Cichlid SMALL - Placidochromis Tanzania - Star Saphire (No Online Purchases)

Name: Mirrorball Cichlid / Star Sapphire Cichlid - Pick Up In Store Only

Scientific Name: Placidochromis sp. “phenochilus Tanzania” (often sold as Placidochromis phenochilus)

Description: A stunning African cichlid renowned for its spectacular metallic blue colouration and distinctive shimmering white spots that develop across the body as males mature. These reflective markings create a beautiful mirrorball or star-like appearance, giving the fish its popular common names. Females and juveniles are generally silver-grey to blue with darker markings. Mirrorball Cichlids are relatively peaceful compared with many other large Lake Malawi cichlids and make an impressive centrepiece for spacious African cichlid aquariums.

Origin: Lake Malawi, East Africa, particularly the Tanzanian shoreline.

pH: Approximately 7.8–8.6

Temperature: Around 24–28°C

Adult Size: Approximately 18–20 cm, with some mature males growing slightly larger.

Lifespan: 8–10 years or longer with proper care.

Food: Omnivorous. Feed quality African cichlid pellets, spirulina-based foods and occasional frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp and krill. In the wild, these fish feed on small invertebrates and other food particles disturbed from sandy substrates. A varied, balanced diet supports healthy growth and colouration. Avoid excessive feeding and poor-quality, fatty foods.

Compatibility: Generally peaceful to moderately territorial for a large African cichlid. Best kept with similarly sized, relatively peaceful Lake Malawi species such as suitable Peacock Cichlids and other non-aggressive Haps. Avoid highly aggressive Mbuna, small community fish and species that may be intimidated or outcompeted for food. Mature males can become territorial, particularly during breeding. Keeping one male with several females is recommended when maintaining a breeding group.

Habitat: A spacious, well-filtered African cichlid aquarium with extensive open swimming areas, sandy substrate and strategically placed rocks or caves for shelter. Mirrorball Cichlids prefer hard, alkaline water with stable parameters, good oxygenation and moderate water movement. Open sand areas are particularly important to accommodate their natural feeding behaviour. . Provide strong biological filtration and regular water changes to maintain excellent water quality.