Star Sapphire - (Placidochromis sp. Phenochilus Tanzania)

🐟 Star Sapphire – (Placidochromis sp. Phenochilus Tanzania) – Stunning African Cichlid with “Starry” Blue Sparkles

The Star Sapphire Cichlid (Placidochromis sp. Phenochilus Tanzania) is a highly sought-after Lake Malawi cichlid prized for its brilliant metallic blue body covered with shimmering white “star” spots. These spots develop more prominently as the fish matures, making adults especially breathtaking. Peaceful for a Malawi species, the Star Sapphire works well in mixed haplochromine communities but still requires plenty of space and compatible tankmates.

🔎 Quick Facts – Star Sapphire (Placidochromis sp. Phenochilus Tanzania)

• 📛 Common Names: Star Sapphire Cichlid, Tanzania Star Sapphire
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Placidochromis sp. Phenochilus Tanzania
• 🌍 Origin: Lake Malawi, East Africa
• 🎨 Appearance: Shimmering metallic blue body with bright white speckles resembling stars in the night sky
• 📏 Max Size: 8–10 inches (20–25 cm)
• 💎 Rarity: Popular and widely bred in the aquarium hobby

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Generally peaceful for a Malawi hap
• ⚠️ Males may be territorial during breeding
• 🐟 Works well with other peaceful to moderately aggressive Malawi haps and peacocks
• 🌿 Active midwater swimmer, often patrolling open areas

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 75+ gallons
• 🌊 Provide open swimming areas with scattered rockwork
• 🪵 Sandy substrate preferred to mimic natural habitat
• 💡 Moderate lighting enhances iridescent coloration
• 🌿 Minimal plants—focus on rock structures for security

💧 Water Parameters – Star Sapphire Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 7.8–8.6
• 💧 Hardness: Hard, alkaline water preferred

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous

• 🐟 High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes
• 🦐 Frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, krill, and mysis shrimp
• 🌽 Occasional blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini
• ⚠️ Avoid excessive protein to prevent Malawi bloat

📋 Star Sapphire Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Star Sapphire Cichlid is one of the most visually stunning Malawi species, with its sparkling “starry night” appearance making it a living gem for any large African cichlid aquarium.