Marakely (Paratilapia polleni)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameParatilapia polleni

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asMadagascar Starry Night Cichlid, Polleni, Starry Night Cichlid, Fony

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentAggressive

DietCarnivore

Adult size11 in

Minimum tank size75 gallons

Water parametersTemp 72-82°F, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15 dGH

Appearance

Jet-black body covered in pearlescent gold-blue spangles like a starry night sky, with a deep body and flowing fins; one of the most striking of all cichlids.

Difficulty and care for the Marakely

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Madagascar

Keeper notes

A large predatory cichlid, territorial and aggressive especially when breeding; will eat tankmates small enough to swallow. Needs space and equally robust companions.

Log Marakely in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Marakely alongside everything else in your reef.

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