Lionhead cichlid - Steatocranus casuarius

Scientific name: Steatocranus casuarius

Common name: Lionhead cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 12 cm (3.94 - 4.72 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 8 - 18°N (142.86 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 24 - 28 °C (75.2 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and feeding

Quality flakes or pellets should be the staple diet. Lionhead cichlids will also accept treats of brine shrimp and chopped mussels or cockles.

Origin

Africa; Lionhead cichlids are to be found in the Congo River system.

Sexing

Males will grow larger with a darker coloration. They will also develop a nuchal lump on the forehead.

Breeding

Caves or plant pots should be provided to act as spawning sites. The male will dig a pit in front of the chosen site and the female will enter to lay the eggs. Both parents will tend the eggs until they hatch, this normally takes 4 days. 5 days after hatching, the fry should be free swimming and they can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Steatocranus casuarius is 5-8 years.

Short description

Steatocranus casuarius will pair for life. The females tend to be less aggressive than the males. They require well oxygenated water with rocks or wood in the aquarium to provide hiding places.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.