Starry Night Cichlid | Paratilapia polleni (ML)

Current stock: juvenile Starry Night Cichlids. The gallery includes images of the juveniles for sale and our original stock photographs. Juvenile colouring and markings develop as the fish matures. The later adult images show mature appearance. Overview A substantial Madagascan cichlid with shimmering pale spots against a dark body. Adult fish can reach around 28 cm, so its current sale size must not determine the aquarium plan. Behaviour Territorial, especially when breeding. This is not a small community fish, and it may eat fish that fit in its mouth. Tank Size Plan a spacious aquarium, around 300 litres or more as a practical starting point, with a base at least 120 × 45 cm. Provide caves, roots, open space and strong biological filtration; larger housing is needed for companions. Compatibility Choose robust, suitably sized companions carefully. Monitor territorial behaviour and be prepared to separate fish. Do not mix different Paratilapia forms for breeding. Diet Offer quality cichlid pellets and varied appropriately sized frozen invertebrates. Remove leftovers promptly. Care Aim for stable conditions around 22–27°C and pH 6.5–8.0. Test water regularly, maintain zero ammonia and nitrite, and perform regular partial water changes. Click & Collect only: Order online and wait for confirmation before collecting from Newlands, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. We do not ship live animals.