Starry Night Cichlid (Paratilapia polleni) – large black freshwater cichlid with star-like white spots in an aquarium.

Starry Night Cichlid Care Guide (Paratilapia polleni)

✨ Starry Night Cichlid Care Guide (Paratilapia polleni)

🌟 Overview The Starry Night Cichlid (Paratilapia polleni), native to Madagascar, is a striking freshwater fish known for its deep black body covered with shimmering star-like white or blue spots. This unique coloration makes it one of the most visually stunning cichlids available. Also called the Polleni Cichlid, it’s a hardy species but requires a large aquarium due to its size and territorial nature.

🔑 Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Paratilapia polleni
  • Common Names: Starry Night Cichlid, Polleni Cichlid
  • Origin: Madagascar
  • Size: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm)
  • Lifespan: 10–15 years
  • Temperament: Aggressive, territorial
  • Care Level: Moderate to Advanced

🏠 Tank Requirements

  • Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons for a single, 125+ gallons for pairs
  • Water Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
  • pH: 6.5–7.5
  • Hardness: 6–15 dGH
  • Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
  • Aquascape: Provide rocks, driftwood, and caves for hiding and territory
  • Filtration: Strong, as they produce heavy bioload

🍽️ Diet

Starry Night Cichlids are omnivores with a carnivorous preference:

  • High-quality cichlid pellets (protein-rich)

  • Frozen/live foods: shrimp, bloodworms, krill, silversides

  • Occasional vegetables (spirulina flakes, blanched spinach) for balance

🧑🤝🧑 Tank Mates

  • Best with other large, robust cichlids: oscars, jack dempseys, green terrors, vieja
  • Compatible with large catfish and plecos
  • Avoid small fish and invertebrates — they will be eaten
  • Territorial, especially during breeding, so provide lots of space

🧠 Behavior & Tips

  • Known for their dazzling star-like pattern that intensifies with age and good care
  • Territorial and aggressive, especially in pairs
  • Males grow larger and show brighter spotting than females
  • Require excellent water quality and strong filtration

❓ FAQ

Q: How big do Starry Night Cichlids get?
A: Adults typically grow 10–12 inches, requiring large aquariums.

Q: Are Starry Night Cichlids aggressive?
A: Yes, they are territorial and should be kept with other large, robust fish.

Q: Can they live in a community tank?
A: Only in very large tanks with equally sized aggressive species.

Q: How long do they live?
A: With proper care, they can live 10–15 years.

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