Lionhead Cichlid

Steatocranus casuarius, the Lionhead or Blockhead Cichlid, is a remarkable West African cichlid from the Congo River rapids. Its compact, heavyset body with a pronounced cranial hump and reduced swim bladder allow it to navigate strong currents by hopping along the bottom like a benthic blenny. Not a typical cichlid; it forms lasting pair bonds, is relatively peaceful for an African cichlid, and makes a fascinating display fish in a Congo River biotope. Captive-bred specimens readily available.

Bonded pairs work well in 120+ L. Moderate to strong flow preferred. Caves and rocky shelter. Temperature 24–28 °C, soft to medium water. Feed cichlid pellets, frozen bloodworm, and worm-based foods. Tolerant of most tankmates outside breeding season.