Frontosa Cichlid

Frontosa Cichlid (Cyphotilapia frontosa)

The Frontosa Cichlid, known scientifically as Cyphotilapia frontosa, is a majestic and imposing fish that commands attention in any aquarium. Native to the deep waters of Lake Tanganyika in Africa, this species is revered for its striking appearance and gentle giant demeanour.

Physical Characteristics:

• Characterized by its prominent forehead hump, which becomes more pronounced with age, especially in males.
• Displays a beautiful pattern of vertical bars on a blue or white body, with variations in colour intensity among different populations.
• One of the larger cichlid species, adults can reach up to 12-14 inches (30-35 cm) in length in captivity.

Natural Habitat:

• Inhabits the rocky depths of Lake Tanganyika, where it prefers environments with plenty of hiding spots among the rocks.
• Adapted to a life in deeper waters, they are found at depths ranging from 50 to 160 feet (15 to 50 meters).

Care and Aquarium Setup:

• Due to their size and social structure, a large aquarium is necessary, with a recommended minimum size of 125 gallons for a small group.
• The tank should mimic their natural rocky habitat, with caves and hiding places to provide security and territory.
• Water conditions should be maintained with temperatures between 72-78°F (22-26°C) and a pH of 7.8-9.0, reflecting the alkaline nature of their native lake.

Diet:

• Primarily piscivorous, feeding on smaller fish in the wild, but will adapt to a variety of foods in captivity.
• A diet consisting of high-quality cichlid pellets, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as shrimp and small fish, will ensure their nutritional needs are met.

Behaviour and Compatibility:

• Known for their relatively peaceful nature, Frontosa Cichlids can coexist with other large, peaceful fish that share similar water requirements.
• They exhibit a hierarchical social structure and are best kept in groups to observe their natural behaviour.
• Aggression is usually minimal, but males can be territorial towards each other, so ample space is crucial.

The Frontosa Cichlid offers an unparalleled presence in the home aquarium, appealing to advanced aquarists looking to replicate a slice of Lake Tanganyika's underwater world.