Mirrorball Cichlid 4cm

Mirrorball Cichlid

The Mirrorball cichlid is a must-have species in a Malawi display aquarium, it is arguably the most stunning of all African cichlids and it truly does have a cult following. Getting to a large size of around 15cm, this fish is guaranteed to be the showpiece and talking point of any display simply because of how stunning it is. Mirrorball cichlids because of their colours are also commonly known as star sapphire cichlids and though they are such an incredible fish, this species is quite uncommon in most aquarium stores. 

Mirror ball cichlids get their name due to the abundance of metallic, almost reflective patterning they develop as adults. These fish have a deep sea blue body colour with an array of crystal-like patterns all over the body that has various shades of blue. The great thing is that no two fish are alike in the amount or placement of these blue spots, which makes it all the more exciting to get a small batch and see how they grow. Another great benefit to the mirror ball cichlid is that they are not nearly as aggressive when compared to other African cichlids however they can hold their own if picked at.  

Trying to find the males and females in mirrorball cichlids is possible as the males tend to grow larger and be more vibrant than the females. Females are more of a grey-blue colour with little to no mirror-like spots. These are mouthbrooding fish meaning that females will hold eggs in their mouths and release fully formed, young fry into the aquarium. 

Tank Recommendations for your Mirrorball Cichlid

The mirrorball cichlid is a very active fish that needs a tank that is at least 470 liters and around 4 feet minimum length. Though these are mostly peaceful fish, they can be territorial at times. To avoid any aggressive behaviour, it is best to have visual breaks and hides through the use of rock caves. A sand or crushed coral substrate is best as these fish will sift through the substrate at times for food. Using crushed coral will also increase the PH in the aquarium as well. 

Suitable Tank Buddies

The mirrorball cichlid is fairly peaceful and can be kept with other African cichlids of similar temperament. The main consideration would be the space available in the aquarium and the water parameters that these fish require.  

Usually Compatible

Other African cichlids like peacocks, electric yellow labs, red zebra cichlids, and similar species. 

Sometimes Compatible

Larger haps such as venustus, Fuscodichromis and small Africans such as julidochromis.

Rarely Compatible

Shrimp and nano aquarium fish like neon tetras, ember tetras, and any soft water parameter requiring fish.

Feeding your Mirror Ball Cichlid

Mirror Ball cichlids like other African cichlids are very easy to feed due to their active feeding response. These fish are however big herbivores and feeding them anything with a higher protein content can lead to bloat and digestion-related issues. Ideally, feeding them a spirulina-based pellet of flake along with nori or algae flakes would be best.