Frontosa Cichlid

Cyphotilapia frontosa

CichlidsAdvanced
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Species Details

Frontosa Cichlids are the kings of Lake Tanganyika, growing into magnificent fish with distinctive nuchal humps and striking black stripes. They are relatively peaceful giants that require large tanks and excellent water quality.

Advanced Care Level

Basic Information

Size30-35 cm (12-14 inches)
TemperamentSemi-Aggressive
DietCarnivorous
Lifespan15-25 years
Tank Size568+ litres (150+ gallons)

Water Parameters

Temperature
24-26°C (75-79°F)
pH Level
8.0-9.0
Hardness
12-25 dGH

Tank Mate Recommendations

Based on 1 selected species

Current Selection:

Frontosa Cichlid
Fully Compatible Species
Compatible

Angelfish

Pterophyllum scalare

Cichlids
Size:15 cm tall, 20 cm long (6 inches tall, 8 inches long)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Tanganyikan Cichlids

Various Lamprologus, Julidochromis, Neolamprologus

Cichlids
Size:5-20 cm (2-8 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Guppies

Poecilia reticulata

Livebearers
Size:3-6 cm (1.2-2.4 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Tetras

Various Tetra species

Characins
Size:2.5-7.5 cm (1-3 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Pleco Catfish

Various Hypostomus, Pterygoplichthys species

Catfish
Size:15-45 cm (6-18 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Peaceful but territorial
100%
Compatible

Barbs

Various Barbus, Puntius species

Cyprinids
Size:5-15 cm (2-6 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%

💡 Tank Mate Tips

• Consider adult size when planning tank space

• Research specific water parameter requirements

• Introduce new fish gradually to reduce stress

• Monitor behavior closely during the first weeks

Quick Facts

Majestic large cichlid with prominent forehead hump

Distinctive black vertical stripes on blue-white body

Slow-growing species reaching large adult size

Relatively peaceful for their size

Endemic to deeper waters of Lake Tanganyika

Requires large tank due to adult size

Males develop larger nuchal hump

Long-lived species with 15+ year lifespan

Carnivorous diet with high protein needs

Prized by cichlid enthusiasts for stately appearance

Compatibility Summary

Compatible Species6
Requires Caution3
View full compatibility analysis →

Care Requirements

Tank Size568+ litres (150+ gallons)
Temperature24-26°C (75-79°F)
pH8.0-9.0
Hardness12-25 dGH

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