⭐ Star Sapphire Cichlid — Placidochromis sp. “Phenochilus Tanzania”
F2 • Florida‑Raised • Wild‑Lineage Fire
These aren’t your average “hope he colors up someday” Stars. These are Shed‑bred, F2, Florida‑raised descendants of true wild Tanzanian lineage — the kind of stock that hits the tank like royalty walking into a room.
Every one of these fish carries that genetic memory of the wild, but polished through two generations of clean water, real food, and Florida sunshine.
The result? Deep cosmic blue, metallic star‑dust spotting, and that slow‑burn shimmer that only the real line throws.
These Stars don’t just sparkle — they detonate.
🔥 What makes this batch special
F2 from Florida local wild lineage — not imported, not mystery‑raised
Born and bred right here at the Shed
True star‑pattern potential baked into the genetics
Bold posture, confident movement, and that signature sapphire glow
This is the kind of fish that becomes a tank identity. A centerpiece. A flex.
If you want the real-deal Star Sapphire look — the galaxies, the glitter, the deep‑space blue — this is the line that delivers it every single time.
Original Line from:
Star Saphire (Phenochilus Tanzania) (WYSIWYG)
🏡 Tank Requirements
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Minimum Tank: 75 gallons+ (adults need room to cruise)
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Aquascape: Open swimming lanes; rockwork for structure
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Substrate: Sand preferred
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Flow: Moderate
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Lid: Recommended—large haps can jump when startled
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Lighting: Moderate; brings out the sapphire “chip” pattern
💧 Water Parameters
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Temperature: 76–82°F
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pH: 7.6–8.4
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Hardness: Hard, Malawi‑appropriate
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Stability: Critical for maintaining color and breeding behavior
🐟 Species Profile
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Adult Size: 8–10"+
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Temperament: Peaceful for a hap; assertive when breeding
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Sexual Dimorphism: Males develop the iconic “star‑chipped” blue; females stay softer silver/blue
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Behavior: Slow, regal swimmers; display beautifully in open water
🍽️ Feeding
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High‑quality pellets (cichlid staple)
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Spirulina‑based foods
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Occasional frozen treats (avoid heavy protein/fat)
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Designed for steady growth, not fast bulking
🐣 Breeding Notes
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Maternal mouthbrooder
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Males need space to claim a display zone
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Females hold for ~21–28 days
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Fry are large and take crushed pellets + baby brine
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Your male is fully chipped and ready to breed, showing mature coloration and dominance posture
🔍 Extra Notes
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These individuals were born and raised right here in Florida, not imported
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Slow‑grown for color, health, and strong genetics
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