{"title":"Stellar Picks (Exact fish)","description":"\u003cp\u003eStellar Picks features our hand-selected, standout fish that represent the very best of our collection. Each fish in this category is chosen for its quality, color, health, and overall appeal, giving you access to some of our most trusted and recommended stock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese are exact, individually selected fish—not general listings—so what you see is exactly what you will receive. This collection is perfect for hobbyists looking for premium, one-of-a-kind additions to their aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"chilotilapia-rhoadesi","title":"Chilotilapia Rhoadesi","description":"\u003cp\u003e5\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"280\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"26\"\u003eChilotilapia rhoadesii\u003c\/strong\u003e, often called the “Malawi Hap,” is a hardy and visually appealing African cichlid known for its calm temperament and subtle, elegant coloration. It’s a great choice for aquarists looking to add a larger, more peaceful species to a Malawi community tank.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"308\" data-end=\"637\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"308\" data-end=\"332\"\u003eChilotilapia rhoadesii\u003c\/em\u003e has a moderately deep, elongated body with a smooth profile and slightly rounded fins. Its base color ranges from \u003cstrong data-start=\"447\" data-end=\"479\"\u003esilvery-gray to light bronze\u003c\/strong\u003e, often accented by faint vertical barring. Males may develop soft blue or yellow hues, especially along the fins and face, while females remain more subdued.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"639\" data-end=\"754\"\u003eThough not as flashy as some cichlids, its understated sheen and graceful movement give it a refined, natural look.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"994\" data-end=\"1092\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"11r841n\" data-start=\"994\" data-end=\"1037\"\u003eGrows up to \u003cstrong data-start=\"1008\" data-end=\"1035\"\u003e10–12 inches (25–30 cm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"8r5rew\" data-start=\"1038\" data-end=\"1092\"\u003eRequires a \u003cstrong data-start=\"1051\" data-end=\"1090\"\u003espacious aquarium (75–125+ gallons)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Stellar Cichlids","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47212819054754,"sku":null,"price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"taeniochromis-holotaenia-very-rare","title":"7\" Taeniochromis Holotaenia - Very Rare","description":"\u003cp\u003e7\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"280\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"28\"\u003eTaeniochromis holotaenia\u003c\/strong\u003e is a sleek and powerful African cichlid prized for its streamlined shape and subtle, predatory elegance. Native to \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eLake Malawi\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e, this species is best suited for experienced aquarists who keep larger, open-water cichlid setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"308\" data-end=\"618\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"308\" data-end=\"334\"\u003eTaeniochromis holotaenia\u003c\/em\u003e has a long, torpedo-shaped body built for speed. Its base coloration is typically \u003cstrong data-start=\"417\" data-end=\"441\"\u003esilvery to pale blue\u003c\/strong\u003e, accented by a distinctive \u003cstrong data-start=\"469\" data-end=\"495\"\u003edark horizontal stripe\u003c\/strong\u003e running from head to tail. The fins are often lightly tinted with blue or gray, giving the fish a clean, understated look.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"620\" data-end=\"712\"\u003eIts streamlined profile and sharp features reflect its role as an active hunter in the wild.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"q9nup\" data-start=\"960\" data-end=\"1002\"\u003eGrows up to \u003cstrong data-start=\"974\" data-end=\"1000\"\u003e8–10 inches (20–25 cm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"ggvtr6\" data-start=\"1003\" data-end=\"1051\"\u003eRequires a \u003cstrong data-start=\"1016\" data-end=\"1049\"\u003elarge aquarium (100+ gallons)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Stellar Cichlids","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47212831408290,"sku":null,"price":150.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"4-multicolor-ob","title":"4\" MultiColor OB","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eMulticolor OB Cichlid\u003c\/strong\u003e is a striking and highly variable African cichlid known for its vibrant mix of colors and irregular blotched patterning. The OB trait creates a unique mosaic of contrasting markings across the body, making each fish individually patterned. Coloration may include combinations of orange, yellow, red, blue, white, black, and lavender, often layered together to produce a dramatic and eye-catching appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body is moderately deep and laterally compressed, with a streamlined profile typical of many Malawi cichlids. Large, irregular blotches and patches are scattered across the body and fins, varying in size, shape, and intensity. Some specimens display a predominantly orange or yellow base color overlaid with black blotches, while others exhibit extensive blue, red, or white pigmentation intermingled with the characteristic OB pattern.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMature males often develop the most intense coloration, showing enhanced metallic blues, vivid reds, and bright oranges, especially during breeding displays. The dorsal, anal, and caudal fins may feature contrasting color highlights, spotting, or marbling that complement the body pattern. Females are generally smaller and may display more subdued coloration, though they still retain the distinctive OB markings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdult size varies depending on the species or hybrid lineage but generally ranges from 4–7 inches (10–18 cm). The unpredictable blend of colors and patterns ensures that no two Multicolor OB Cichlids are exactly alike, making them highly sought after by aquarium hobbyists. Their bold appearance, active behavior, and constantly changing visual appeal make them standout specimens in African cichlid aquariums.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Stellar Cichlids","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47358131568802,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0640\/7913\/4882\/files\/IMG_6855.jpg?v=1782169495"},{"product_id":"6-champsochromis-caeruleus-malawi-trout","title":"6\" Champsochromis Caeruleus - Malawi Trout","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eChampsochromis caeruleus\u003c\/strong\u003e, commonly known as \"Malawi Trout\" is a large, streamlined predatory haplochromine cichlid native to the open waters of \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eLake Malawi\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e. It is prized in the aquarium hobby for its intense metallic blue coloration, graceful swimming style, and impressive size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body is long, torpedo-shaped, and built for speed, reflecting its natural role as an open-water hunter. Its coloration ranges from silvery blue in juveniles to a deep, saturated electric blue or cerulean in mature males. Under strong lighting, the scales produce a shimmering, iridescent effect that can shift between turquoise, sapphire, and steel blue depending on the viewing angle. Females are generally more subdued, showing silver-gray to light blue tones with less intense iridescence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe head is slightly pointed with a strong jaw structure adapted for a predatory lifestyle. The eyes are large and alert, enhancing its ability to detect prey in open water. The dorsal fin is long and low, running much of the back, while the caudal fin is slightly forked and powerful, designed for bursts of speed. The fins may show faint blue edging or translucent highlights that complement the body coloration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMature males typically reach 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) in length and develop their most vivid coloration as they establish dominance or during breeding displays. At peak condition, their electric blue coloration becomes especially intense, giving them a glowing, almost neon-like appearance in aquarium lighting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn captivity, the Champsochromis caeruleus is an active, open-water swimmer that requires a spacious aquarium and careful tank mate selection due to its size and predatory instincts. When properly maintained, it serves as a stunning centerpiece fish, admired for its combination of power, elegance, and brilliant blue coloration reminiscent of the deep waters of Lake Malawi.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Stellar Cichlids","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47358156669090,"sku":null,"price":125.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0640\/7913\/4882\/files\/IMG_6867.jpg?v=1782172489"},{"product_id":"4-75-eureka-red","title":"4.75\" Eureka Red","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eEureka Red Peacock Cichlid\u003c\/strong\u003e is a vivid and highly desirable color variant of the Peacock cichlid, prized for its intense red-to-orange body coloration contrasted with brilliant electric blue highlights. Native to the rocky and sandy transitional zones of \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eLake Malawi\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e, this fish is a standout member of the \u003cem\u003eAulonocara stuartgranti\u003c\/em\u003e complex and is especially popular in the aquarium hobby for its bold, high-contrast appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body is moderately elongated and laterally compressed, giving it a sleek and elegant profile typical of Peacock cichlids. Mature males display a deep, saturated red that can range from fiery crimson to bright scarlet or orange-red depending on lineage and lighting. This rich base coloration is sharply contrasted by metallic blue to electric blue markings on the face, gill plates, and fins. The dorsal fin often shows a vivid blue edging, while the anal and caudal fins may shimmer with alternating blue and red tones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFemales and juveniles are more subdued, usually appearing silvery-gray, pale beige, or light peach with faint hints of coloration. As males mature, their colors intensify significantly, especially under optimal water conditions and during breeding or territorial displays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fins are long, flowing, and ornamental, enhancing the fish’s overall display quality. The dorsal fin extends gracefully along the back, often highlighted with bright blue trim, while the tail fin may show a blend of red and iridescent blue. The contrast between warm red body tones and cool blue accents is the defining feature of this variety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdult Eureka Red Peacocks typically reach 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) in length. Under aquarium lighting, they exhibit a glowing, almost neon effect, with reds appearing deeper and blues becoming more reflective and metallic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnown for being relatively peaceful compared to many other African cichlids, the Eureka Red Peacock is well-suited to community-style Malawi setups with compatible tank mates. Its combination of fiery coloration, graceful movement, and manageable temperament makes it one of the most sought-after centerpiece fish among Peacock cichlid enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Stellar Cichlids","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47358157291682,"sku":null,"price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0640\/7913\/4882\/files\/IMG_6872.jpg?v=1782172811"},{"product_id":"4-5-albino-pink","title":"4.5 Albino Pink","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eAlbino Pink Peacock Cichlid\u003c\/strong\u003e is a selectively bred ornamental variant of Peacock cichlid known for its soft pink, blush, and pale salmon coloration combined with albino traits. Developed within aquarium breeding lines derived from species native to \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eLake Malawi\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e, this fish is prized for its delicate, pastel appearance and striking red or pink eyes caused by the absence of melanin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body is moderately elongated and laterally compressed, typical of the \u003cem\u003eAulonocara\u003c\/em\u003e group, with an elegant, streamlined profile. Its coloration ranges from light peach and champagne pink to more intense rosy or salmon hues, often with subtle pearlescent or golden undertones. Because of the albino influence, dark pigmentation is absent, giving the fish a clean, luminous appearance with smooth, even coloration rather than bold patterning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMature males display the most vivid coloration, often deepening into richer pinks or warm coral tones under proper lighting and optimal conditions. The fins are usually translucent to lightly tinted, sometimes showing faint iridescent blue or gold edging depending on the strain. Females and juveniles are generally paler, appearing creamy white, soft beige, or very light pink until they mature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdult Albino Pink Peacocks typically reach 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) in length. As they age and establish dominance, males intensify in color, becoming more saturated and visually striking, especially during courtship displays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn aquariums, this variety is valued for its calm, glowing aesthetic and relatively peaceful temperament compared to many other African cichlids. Its combination of soft pink coloration, albino eyes, and graceful Peacock cichlid form makes it a popular centerpiece fish in Lake Malawi community setups.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Stellar Cichlids","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47358171349154,"sku":null,"price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0640\/7913\/4882\/files\/IMG_6875.jpg?v=1782176061"},{"product_id":"4-ob-lwanda","title":"4\" OB Lwanda","description":"\u003cp\u003ehe \u003cstrong\u003eOB Lwanda Peacock Cichlid\u003c\/strong\u003e is a striking hybrid-style Peacock cichlid that combines the vibrant base coloration of the Lwanda strain with the unpredictable Yellow and Blue Blotch (OB) pattern gene. Native lineage influences trace back to Peacock cichlids from \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eLake Malawi\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e, but this specific form is the result of selective aquarium breeding aimed at producing high-contrast, multi-colored ornamental fish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body is moderately elongated and laterally compressed, typical of the \u003cem\u003eAulonocara\u003c\/em\u003e group, but visually far more complex due to its mixed pigmentation. The base coloration in males usually features intense orange, red, or golden hues derived from the Lwanda lineage. Over this warm base, irregular OB markings appear as blotches, marbling, or scattered patches that may include black, deep red, orange, yellow, or occasionally bluish tones depending on the breeding line.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn many specimens, metallic blue or turquoise highlights appear on the face, gill plates, and fins, creating a strong contrast against the warmer body colors and darker OB markings. The dorsal, anal, and caudal fins often show mixed coloration, with sections of bright blue edging interwoven with blotches and patches from the OB gene.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFemales are generally less intense in color, often showing lighter orange, cream, or pale yellow tones with reduced blotching, though still retaining the characteristic OB pattern structure. As males mature and become dominant, their coloration becomes significantly more vivid, especially during breeding or territorial displays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdult OB Lwanda Peacock Cichlids typically reach 5–6 inches (13–15 cm) in length. Each individual is uniquely patterned, with no two fish displaying the exact same distribution of OB markings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn aquariums, this cichlid is highly prized for its unpredictable patterning, vivid coloration, and active yet generally manageable temperament. It serves as a standout centerpiece fish in African cichlid setups, especially when kept under strong lighting that enhances its metallic blues and warm Lwanda reds.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Stellar Cichlids","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47358193631394,"sku":null,"price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0640\/7913\/4882\/files\/image0_2.jpg?v=1782179256"},{"product_id":"3-75-ruby-red","title":"3.75\" Ruby Red","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eRuby Red\u003c\/strong\u003e is a striking ornamental variety of Peacock cichlid admired for its deep, saturated red coloration and elegant body form. Originating from selectively bred lines of Peacock cichlids associated with \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eLake Malawi\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e, this fish has become a favorite in the aquarium hobby for its bold, jewel-like appearance and relatively consistent coloration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body is moderately elongated and laterally compressed, giving it the sleek, graceful profile typical of \u003cem\u003eAulonocara\u003c\/em\u003e species. Its defining feature is a rich ruby-red to crimson coloration that covers most of the body in mature males. Depending on lineage and lighting, the red may range from bright scarlet to deep wine-red, often with a smooth, uniform appearance rather than heavy patterning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubtle iridescent highlights may appear on the face, gill plates, and fins, often showing hints of blue, violet, or metallic pink that contrast with the dominant red body color. The dorsal, anal, and caudal fins are typically well-developed and may carry faint edging or shimmer that enhances the fish’s overall brilliance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFemales and juveniles are generally much paler, appearing silvery, beige, or light pink with only faint traces of red until maturity. As males grow and establish dominance, their ruby coloration intensifies significantly, especially during breeding or territorial displays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdult Ruby Red Peacocks typically reach 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) in length. In aquarium lighting, they exhibit a glowing, almost luminous red effect that makes them stand out strongly as centerpiece fish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnown for being relatively peaceful compared to many African cichlids, the Ruby Red Peacock is well-suited to community Malawi setups with compatible tank mates. Its combination of deep red coloration, graceful movement, and manageable temperament makes it one of the most visually impactful Peacock cichlids in the hobby.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Stellar Cichlids","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47358202773666,"sku":null,"price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0640\/7913\/4882\/files\/image3_1.jpg?v=1782179487"},{"product_id":"4-5-albino-sulphurhead","title":"4.5\" Albino Sulphurhead","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eAlbino Sulphurhead Cichlid\u003c\/strong\u003e is a rare and visually striking albino variant of the Sulphurhead Peacock, a member of the Peacock cichlid group native to the rocky and sandy transitional zones of \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eLake Malawi\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e. It is highly prized in the aquarium hobby for its soft yellow-gold coloration, red or pink eyes, and elegant body form combined with the distinctive head profile characteristic of the Sulphurhead lineage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body is moderately elongated and laterally compressed, typical of \u003cem\u003eAulonocara\u003c\/em\u003e species, giving it a sleek and refined appearance. In the albino form, dark pigmentation is absent, resulting in a base coloration that ranges from creamy white to pale yellow, soft gold, or light champagne. This creates a clean, luminous look that contrasts strongly with the species’ more naturally patterned wild-type forms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMature males often develop more intense golden or warm yellow tones across the head and upper body, especially under strong lighting or optimal water conditions. The head region may show a slightly deeper “sulphur” tint—soft gold to bright yellow—though still muted compared to non-albino variants. Fins are typically translucent to lightly colored, sometimes showing faint pearlescent or golden edging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFemales and juveniles are generally paler, appearing ivory, beige, or very light yellow, with minimal color development until maturity. As males establish dominance, their coloration becomes more pronounced, especially during courtship or territorial displays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdult Albino Sulphurhead Cichlids typically reach 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) in length. In aquarium lighting, they display a gentle glowing effect, with their pale body and golden tones appearing especially vivid against darker tank backgrounds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnown for a generally peaceful temperament relative to many African cichlids, the Albino Sulphurhead is well-suited for carefully planned Malawi community aquariums. Its combination of albino traits, soft golden coloration, and refined Peacock cichlid body shape makes it a highly attractive centerpiece fish.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Stellar Cichlids","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47358202937506,"sku":null,"price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0640\/7913\/4882\/files\/image5_1.jpg?v=1782179787"},{"product_id":"4-red-ob","title":"4\" Red OB","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eRed OB\u003c\/strong\u003e is a vibrant and highly variable ornamental variety of Peacock cichlid known for its striking combination of intense red coloration and the unpredictable Red Blotch (OB) pattern. Originating from selectively bred Peacock cichlid lines associated with \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eLake Malawi\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e, this fish is prized in the aquarium hobby for its bold colors and unique, one-of-a-kind patterning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body is moderately elongated and laterally compressed, typical of the \u003cem\u003eAulonocara\u003c\/em\u003e group, giving it an elegant and streamlined profile. Its base coloration is usually rich red, orange-red, or deep scarlet, which becomes more intense as the fish matures. Over this vibrant base, the OB gene produces irregular blotches and marbled markings that may appear in shades of black, dark red, orange, yellow, or even muted blue depending on the strain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo two Red OB Peacocks look exactly alike. Some individuals display heavy blotching across the entire body and fins, while others show more open areas of solid red broken by scattered patches. The dorsal, anal, and caudal fins often mirror the body pattern, adding to the overall complexity of the fish’s appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMature males develop the most intense coloration, with deep, saturated reds and highly contrasting OB markings, especially under strong aquarium lighting. Females are generally smaller and lighter in color, often appearing orange, peach, or silvery with reduced pattern expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdult Red OB Peacock Cichlids typically reach 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) in length. Their coloration intensifies with age, social status, and optimal water conditions, making dominant males especially eye-catching in display tanks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn aquariums, this variety is valued for its vivid coloration, active behavior, and highly individual appearance. Its combination of fiery red tones and unpredictable OB patterning makes it a standout centerpiece fish in African cichlid communities.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Stellar Cichlids","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47358203461794,"sku":null,"price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0640\/7913\/4882\/files\/image9_1.jpg?v=1782180030"},{"product_id":"4-strawberry","title":"4\" Strawberry","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eStrawberry Peacock Cichlid\u003c\/strong\u003e is a selectively bred ornamental variety of Peacock cichlid known for its vivid red-pink to strawberry-red coloration and elegant body form. Developed from Peacock cichlid lineages originating in \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eLake Malawi\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e, it is highly valued in the aquarium hobby for its bright, uniform coloration and peaceful temperament compared to many other African cichlids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe body is moderately elongated and laterally compressed, giving it the streamlined, graceful shape typical of the \u003cem\u003eAulonocara\u003c\/em\u003e group. Its defining feature is a rich strawberry hue that ranges from soft pink and salmon to deeper red or reddish-orange depending on lineage, diet, and dominance. Unlike OB or patterned varieties, the Strawberry Peacock is typically more solid in coloration, with minimal blotching or striping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMature males display the most intense coloration, often developing a glowing, saturated red-pink body that becomes especially vibrant under aquarium lighting. Subtle iridescent highlights may appear on the face, gill plates, and fins, sometimes showing faint blue or violet reflections that contrast gently with the warm body tones. The dorsal, anal, and caudal fins are well-developed and may carry slightly deeper edging or shimmer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFemales and juveniles are generally paler, appearing light peach, silvery pink, or beige, with coloration intensifying as they mature. As with most Peacock cichlids, males become significantly more colorful and dominant with age and social hierarchy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdult Strawberry Peacock Cichlids typically reach 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) in length. In aquariums, they are active swimmers and relatively peaceful, making them suitable for mixed Malawi community setups with compatible tank mates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall, the Strawberry Peacock is prized for its clean, vibrant coloration and refined elegance, offering a bold yet simple aesthetic that stands out strongly among other Peacock cichlid varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Stellar Cichlids","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47358205558946,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0640\/7913\/4882\/files\/image10.jpg?v=1782180389"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0640\/7913\/4882\/collections\/ChatGPT_Image_Jun_19_2026_09_43_48_PM.png?v=1782702475","url":"https:\/\/stellarcichlid.com\/collections\/stellar-picks-exact-fish.oembed","provider":"Stellar Cichlids","version":"1.0","type":"link"}