Paratilapia Polleni

Paratilapia polleni is a species of cichlid fish endemic to Madagascar. It's often referred to as the Black Diamond Cichlid or Polleni Cichlid among aquarium enthusiasts. This species is known for its striking appearance, with males displaying a dark body covered in small, iridescent spots that can appear blue, green, or gold under different lighting conditions. The fish can grow to a sizable length, often reaching up to about 12 inches (30 cm) in captivity, though in the wild, they might not grow as large.

The natural habitats of Paratilapia polleni are rivers and lakes, where they prefer areas with plenty of hiding spots among rocks and submerged wood. However, their habitat is under threat due to habitat destruction, pollution, and competition from introduced species, leading to a decline in their wild population. This has resulted in the species being considered vulnerable or even endangered, and efforts are being made to conserve their natural habitats and manage captive breeding programs to ensure their survival.

In the aquarium, Paratilapia polleni requires a large tank due to its size, with at least 75 gallons being recommended for a single specimen. They are relatively aggressive and territorial, especially towards conspecifics or similarly sized and shaped fish, so careful consideration must be given to tank mates and aquascaping. The aquarium should have plenty of hiding places and a substrate of sand or fine gravel. The water should be kept clean and well-oxygenated, with regular water changes being a must to maintain good health.

Their diet in the wild consists of smaller fish, crustaceans, and insect larvae, but in the aquarium, they can be fed a variety of foods, including pellets, frozen, and live foods. Providing a varied diet is key to maintaining their health and enhancing their colors.

Breeding Paratilapia polleni in captivity can be challenging due to their aggression and the need for specific breeding conditions. They are substrate spawners, laying their eggs on a flat surface, which the male then fertilizes. Both parents typically show some degree of parental care, guarding the eggs and later the fry.

Despite the challenges in keeping them, their unique appearance and interesting behavior make Paratilapia polleni a desirable species for experienced aquarium hobbyists looking to add a distinctive and beautiful fish to their collection.