Paratilapia polleni – Starry Night Cichlid “Bleekeri”

Paratilapia polleni – Starry Night Cichlid “Bleekeri” also known as the Pollen’s cichlid or the black diamond cichlid, is a species of freshwater fish that belongs to the family Cichlidae. It is native to the rivers and lakes of Madagascar and nearby islands in the Indian Ocean.

P. polleni is a relatively large cichlid that can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length. It has a distinctive black and white coloration, with a diamond-shaped pattern on its body and spots on its fins. Males are typically larger and more colorful than females.

In the wild, P. polleni feeds on a variety of small fish, insects, and crustaceans. It is an omnivorous fish and can be fed a varied diet in captivity, including commercial pellets, frozen foods, and live prey.

P. polleni is a popular aquarium fish due to its striking appearance and active personality. However, it requires a large tank and plenty of hiding places to provide adequate territory for its aggressive behavior. It is also important to note that P. polleni can be a difficult fish to keep, and it is recommended for experienced aquarium hobbyists.

Facts about Starry Night Cichlids

• Starry Night Cichlids are endangered and feared to be extinct in their native environment due to habitat destruction. Non-native species in their habitat also challenge them.
• Its a carnivorous fish. They wait for smaller fish to approach them before gulping them down whole.
• Starry Night Cichlids are possessive, especially when they’re about to spawn.
• There are both large and small spotted forms available.
• In Madagascar, this fish is referred to as the “Marakely.” This means “black fish.”
• Due to their stunning colour, Starry Night Cichlids are a popular in public aquarium exhibits.

I. Size

• Average Adult Size: 10-12″ (25-30 cm)
• Maximum Adult Size:  12″
• Swimming Level: top and middle of the tank

II. You would love the fish because…

Paratilapia polleni has a distinctive and striking appearance. It is a relatively large cichlid that can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length. The body of P. polleni is oval-shaped and flattened from side to side.

The most notable feature of P. polleni is its black and white coloration. The body of the fish is generally black, with a diamond-shaped white pattern that extends from the dorsal fin to the tail fin. The fins are also spotted with white, and the anal and dorsal fins have a hint of yellow or blue.

Males of the species are typically larger and more colorful than females, with longer fins and more vivid coloration. However, both males and females have the same diamond-shaped pattern on their bodies.

Overall, Paratilapia polleni is a visually impressive fish that can add a lot of color and personality to an aquarium.

III. Is this fish species peaceful or hostile?

• Recommended: 2
• Overall hostility: Peaceful
• Hostility towards own species: Peaceful
• Hostility towards other Species: Choosy pet

IV. Species compatibility

• Red Tail Shark
• Giant Danios
• Plecos
•  Leopard Bushfish
• African Red-Eyed Tetra
• Siamese Algae Eater
• African Butterfly Cichlid
• Clown Loach
•  Paratilapia
• Pictus Catfish

V. How to feed this species?

Feed adult cichlids once a day, and to keep them fit, you should give them less food than usual once a week, or even not give them food at all. It doesn’t hurt them.

Recommended food:

• Hikari Sinking Cichlid Excel Pellet
• Hikari USA Inc Cichlid Gold 2OZ Mini Pellet

Word for the wise

Live Plants

Live, frozen food

Driftwood

Substrate

Rocks

Aquarium Starter Kit

Filter

Heater

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