Moderate
Star Sapphire Hap Cichlid (Placidochromis phenochilus)
24–28°C · pH 7.5–8.5 · 300L
£18.99
The Star Sapphire Hap (Placidochromis phenochilus) is one of the most stunning Haplochromine cichlids from Lake Malawi. Males develop an extraordinary iridescent blue colouration covered in glittering white-blue spots — like stars scattered across a sapphire sky. Endemic to the northern parts of Lake Malawi, this species grows to 16 cm and makes a spectacular centrepiece for large Malawi setups.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Placidochromis phenochilus giselli
The Star Sapphire Hap (Placidochromis phenochilus) is one of the most stunning Haplochromine cichlids from Lake Malawi. Males develop an extraordinary iridescent blue colouration covered in glittering white-blue spots — like stars scattered across a sapphire sky. Endemic to the northern parts of Lake Malawi, this species grows to 16 cm and makes a spectacular centrepiece for large Malawi setups.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Cichlids are one of the most diverse fish families in the hobby. From tiny apistogrammas to massive oscars, this guide covers the basics of keeping them well.
Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors
The Star Sapphire Hap (Placidochromis phenochilus) is one of the most stunning Haplochromine cichlids from Lake Malawi. Males develop an extraordinary iridescent blue colouration covered in glittering white-blue spots — like stars scattered across a sapphire sky. Endemic to the northern parts of Lake Malawi, this species grows to 16 cm and makes a spectacular centrepiece for large Malawi aquariums.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Placidochromis phenochilus |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Lake Malawi, East Africa (northern) |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive |
| Adult Size | 16 cm |
| Minimum Tank | 300 litres |
| Temperature | 24 – 28 °C |
| pH | 7.5 – 8.5 |
| Hardness | 10 – 25 dGH |
| Diet | Cichlid pellets, frozen foods, spirulina flakes |
| Lifespan | Up to 10 years |
Placidochromis phenochilus is endemic to the northern parts of Lake Malawi, where it inhabits sandy and intermediate zones near the shoreline. Unlike rock-dwelling Mbuna, Haplochromine cichlids (Haps) are open-water and sand-dwelling species that require more swimming space. The name ‘phenochilus’ refers to the enlarged lips of this species, which it uses to sift food from sandy substrates.
Lake Malawi cichlids fall into three main groups: Mbuna (rock-dwelling, aggressive, herbivorous), Haps (open-water, semi-aggressive, omnivorous), and Peacocks (sand-dwelling Aulonocara, gentle, omnivorous). The Star Sapphire is a Hap — it needs more space than Mbuna, is less aggressive, and should be kept with other Haps and Peacocks rather than aggressive Mbuna.
Provide at least 300 litres with open swimming space and sandy areas. Add some rock formations along the back and sides but leave the centre open. Maintain 24 to 28 °C, pH 7.5 to 8.5, hardness 10 to 25 dGH. Keep 1 male with 2–3 females.
Omnivorous; feed high-quality cichlid pellets, frozen brine shrimp, krill, and spirulina flakes. In the wild, P. phenochilus uses its enlarged lips to sift invertebrates from sandy substrates. Feed 2–3 times daily.
Best with other Malawi Haps and Peacock cichlids. See our Lwanda Peacock Cichlid for a compatible Aulonocara. Also works well with Synodontis catfish. Avoid aggressive Mbuna that will bully this more peaceable species.
Our Star Sapphire Haps are healthy specimens developing the spectacular iridescent blue colouration with glittering white-blue spots. A breathtaking centrepiece fish for serious Malawi enthusiasts. Live arrival guaranteed with UK delivery.
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