Frontosa
Cyphotilapia frontosa
Frontosa is a classic Lake Tanganyika cichlid known for its deep body, bold banding, and impressive adult presence. It is a slower-growing, larger African cichlid that does best in a spacious Tanganyika-style aquarium with stable hard water and calm, compatible tank mates.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Lake Tanganyika.
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Natural Habitat: Deep rocky areas and rocky drop-offs.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: 10-14 inches.
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Coloration: Blue-white body tones with dark vertical bars; mature males often develop a more pronounced forehead hump.
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Body Shape: Large, deep-bodied Tanganyikan cichlid with a tall profile and broad head.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Generally calm for a large cichlid, but territorial and predatory toward small fish.
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Social Behavior: Best kept as a group or colony in a large aquarium with compatible Tanganyikan tank mates.
Aquarium Care
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Tank Size: A 125 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended for adults; larger tanks are better for groups.
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Water Parameters: 74-80°F, pH 7.8-9.0, hard alkaline water.
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Tank Setup: Provide open swimming room, sand, large rock structures, caves, and strong filtration while avoiding sharp decor.
Diet and Feeding
Breeding
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Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
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Breeding Notes: Frontosa are slower to mature. Females hold eggs and fry in the mouth, and fry should be protected from adults and larger tank mates after release.
Tank Mates
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Compatible With: Other calm, appropriately sized Lake Tanganyika cichlids and larger peaceful African cichlids.
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Avoid: Small fish that may be eaten, hyper-aggressive mbuna, and fast fin-nippers that may stress them.
