Star Sapphire Cichlid (Placidochromis phenochilus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific namePlacidochromis phenochilus

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asPhenochilus, Mdoka White Lips, Star Sapphire Hap

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

DietCarnivore

Adult size8 in

Minimum tank size100 gallons

Water parametersTemp 76-82°F, pH 7.8-8.6, GH 10-20 dGH

Appearance

Males brilliant metallic blue covered in light spangles, often with white lips ('Mdoka White Lips'); females silvery. A standout blue hap.

Difficulty and care for the Star Sapphire Cichlid

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Lake Malawi, Africa

Keeper notes

Peaceful, slow-growing large hap; keep one male with several females. Mild for its size.

Log Star Sapphire Cichlid 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 Star Sapphire Cichlid alongside everything else in your reef.

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