Common Name:Front, Humphead Cichlid
Scientific Name:Cyphotilapia Frontosa
Temperature |
pH Range |
Hardness (dH) |
Max. Size |
Min. Tank Size |
Swim Area |
78F - 81F | 7.8 - 8.2 | 10 dH | 14 inches | 75 gallons | Middle and Bottom |
Description:
Cyphotilapia frontosa is a monomorphic species with little or no difference between males and females. Frontosa can only be sexed reliably by venting and even this method cannot always be trusted. C. frontosa is a lethargic and slow-moving fish. Even in the lake they don't expend much energy in hunting down their food. Nature has endowed them with a unique trait which gives them an advantage over their prey - Fronts are nocturnal feeders and don't require much light to wake up. Fish make up the majority of their diet, Cyprichromis species being their primary target. In the wild, frontosa live in large groups called colonies. In the aquarium, they should also be kept in larger groups, although they can be kept successfully in groups as small as four individuals (1 male:3 females).
Frontosa appreciate caves and having their own hiding spot away from other tank species.
Frontosa are generally slow moving fish that keep to themselves and do not bother other tank inhabitants that cannot fit into their mouth.
Origin:Frontosa appreciate caves and having their own hiding spot away from other tank species.
Frontosa are generally slow moving fish that keep to themselves and do not bother other tank inhabitants that cannot fit into their mouth.
Lake Tanganyika , Africa
Life Span:Up to 20 years
Diet:Carnivore
Additional Diet Information:These fish prefer solid live food, but will usually take pellets as well.
Gender Difference:Monomorphic
Males are larger and will have a more prominent hump on their head.
Breeding:Maternal Mouthbrooder
Frontosa are not too difficult to breed although they do not reach sexual maturity until 3-4 years of age. Female will hold eggs for approximately 4 weeks.
Temperament/Social Behavior:- Aggressive
- Docile
- Will eat smaller fish
- Timid/Shy
- Preditory
- Territorial
- Aggressive when spawning
Easily Obtained