Frontosa Cichlid/Humphead Cichlid - (Cyphotilapia frontosa)

🐟 Frontosa Cichlid / Humphead Cichlid – (Cyphotilapia frontosa)

The Frontosa Cichlid (Cyphotilapia frontosa), also known as the Humphead Cichlid, is one of the most iconic African cichlids in the aquarium hobby. Native to the deep, rocky waters of Lake Tanganyika, this regal species is admired for its distinctive nuchal hump, vertical blue and black barring, and graceful, slow-moving presence. Despite its large size, the Frontosa is calm and peaceful for its stature, making it a popular choice among advanced aquarists with large tanks who want a striking centerpiece fish.

🔍 Quick Facts – Frontosa Cichlid (Cyphotilapia frontosa)

🧬 Scientific Name: Cyphotilapia frontosa
🏷️ Common Names: Frontosa Cichlid, Humphead Cichlid
🌍 Origin: Lake Tanganyika, East Africa
📏 Max Size: Up to 12–14 inches (30–35 cm)
🧪 Lifespan: 15–25 years (with excellent care)
💎 Coloration: Iridescent blue body with bold vertical black bars and a prominent head hump

🕊️ Behavior & Temperament

• Generally peaceful for a large cichlid; can be territorial when breeding
• Slow-moving and deliberate; prefers calm, stable environments
• Best kept with other Tanganyikan species of similar temperament
• Forms social groups or colonies in the wild

🏡 Tank Requirements

• 🛁 Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons (larger for adult groups)
• 🪨 Provide caves, rock structures, and open swimming areas
• 💨 Gentle to moderate water movement
• 💧 Maintain pristine water quality with strong biological filtration

Water Parameters
🌡️ Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
⚗️ pH: 7.8–9.0
💧 Water Hardness: Hard to very hard

🍽️ Diet
Carnivorous / Omnivorous — feeds on high-protein foods such as quality pellets, krill, shrimp, and occasional live or frozen fish foods. Avoid overfeeding to prevent digestive issues common in deep-water species.

📊 Overview Table

📝 Snippet
The Frontosa Cichlid (Cyphotilapia frontosa), or Humphead Cichlid, is a majestic African species from Lake Tanganyika known for its bold black bars, deep-blue shimmer, and iconic forehead hump. A peaceful giant and true centerpiece fish for large aquariums.