{"product_id":"placidochromis-phenochilus-star-sapphire-5-25-to-6","title":"Placidochromis phenochilus - Star Sapphire (5.25\" to 6\")","description":"\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePlacidochromis phenochilus\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, commonly known as the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStar Sapphire Cichlid\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, is one of Lake Malawi's most admired haplochromine cichlids. Famous for its brilliant metallic blue coloration and distinctive white, pearl-like spots that resemble a star-filled night sky, this species is a favorite among African cichlid enthusiasts seeking a striking yet relatively peaceful centerpiece fish.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGrowing to \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e20–25 cm (8–10 inches)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the Star Sapphire thrives in spacious aquariums with sandy substrate, scattered rock formations, and plenty of open swimming space. Mature males develop intense electric-blue coloration and more pronounced pearly spotting, while females remain a more subdued silver-gray with faint patterning. Although territorial during breeding, they are generally more peaceful than many other large Malawi cichlids and do well with compatible haps and peacocks.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn omnivore by nature, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePlacidochromis phenochilus\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e thrives on a varied diet of high-quality cichlid pellets, supplemented with krill, mysis shrimp, spirulina-based foods, and other nutritious offerings. Maintaining excellent water quality and a balanced diet helps preserve its vivid coloration and overall health.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith its shimmering sapphire-blue body, unique pearly spotting, and graceful personality, the Star Sapphire Cichlid is a spectacular addition to any well-planned Lake Malawi aquarium, offering beauty, elegance, and fascinating behavior.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Stellar Cichlids","offers":[{"title":"5.75”","offer_id":47496283816098,"sku":null,"price":130.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"3.5”","offer_id":47496283848866,"sku":null,"price":50.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"4.75”","offer_id":47496283881634,"sku":null,"price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0640\/7913\/4882\/files\/image17.jpg?v=1785721833","url":"https:\/\/stellarcichlid.com\/products\/placidochromis-phenochilus-star-sapphire-5-25-to-6","provider":"Stellar Cichlids","version":"1.0","type":"link"}