Our Guide To Keeping Frontosa Cichlid Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Cyphotilapia frontosa
   • Common name: Frontosa Cichlid
   • Family: Cichlidae
   • Origin: Eastern Africa, specifically Lake Tanganyika
   • Adult length: Up to 35 cm
   • Lifespan: 10 to 15 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Frontosa Cichlids require a spacious tank with plenty of hiding places and open swimming space. A tank size of at least 250L is recommended for a small group.
   • Provide rocks and caves for them to establish territories and seek refuge.
   • Substrate should be fine sand to mimic their natural habitat.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Frontosa Cichlids prefer alkaline water conditions with a pH range of 7.8 to 9.0.
   • Keep the water temperature between 23 to 26°C (73 to 79°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Provide efficient filtration to maintain water quality, but avoid strong water flow as Frontosa Cichlids are not strong swimmers and may struggle in high flow.

5. Diet:

   • Frontosa Cichlids are carnivores and require a protein-rich diet. Offer them high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes as a staple.
   • Supplement their diet with occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small crustaceans.

6. Tank mates:

   • Frontosa Cichlids are relatively peaceful but can be territorial, especially during breeding. They can be kept with other large, peaceful fish from Lake Tanganyika such as other cichlids like Tropheus or Julidochromis species.
   • Avoid keeping them with smaller, more aggressive fish that may harass or outcompete them.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Frontosa Cichlids are generally peaceful but can become territorial, especially when breeding.
   • They exhibit a unique behavior of forming social hierarchies within their group.