Lionhead Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Cedricguppy" title="User:Cedricguppy">Cedricguppy - Loury Cédric</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameLionhead Cichlid
Scientific NameSteatocranus tinanti
Common NamesLionhead Cichlid, Tinanti's Buffalohead, Tinanti's Lionhead
FamilyCichlidae
OriginAfrica, Congo River Basin
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)30
Max Size (Inches)5
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesOther robust African riverine cichlids (e.g., other Steatocranus species), Larger peaceful tetras, Robust catfish (e.g., Synodontis species), Larger peaceful barbs
Description
Steatocranus tinanti, commonly known as the Lionhead Cichlid, is a fascinating freshwater fish native to the Congo River basin in Africa. This species is characterized by a prominent nuchal hump, especially in males, and a preference for rocky, cave-filled environments. While territorial, they are generally peaceful towards non-aggressive tankmates of similar size.
