Lionhead Cichlid (Steatocranus casuarius)
Notes: A unique, characterful species with fascinating riverine behavior and strong parental care. Best suited for aquarists who can replicate a high-flow, oxygen-rich environment
 
Key Features
Family: Cichlidae
Origin: Congo River Basin, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Size: Up to 10 cm (4 inches)
Lifespan: 5–8 years
Scientific Name: Occasional vegetable matter
Scientific Name: Territorial but generally peaceful outside of spawning
Scientific Name: Best kept in pairs or harems in larger tanks
Scientific Name: Synodontis catfish, small peaceful African cichlids, fast-swimming characins
Scientific Name: Avoid aggressive or overly active species
Scientific Name: Adapted for riverine environments; may “hop” along the substrate
Scientific Name: Males guard territory aggressively during breeding
Scientific Name: Steatocranus casuarius — Lionhead Cichlid
Body Shape: Stocky and elongated with a flattened underside
Coloration:
Scientific Name: Typically grayish to brown body with metallic blue or green sheen
Scientific Name: Some individuals may show darker vertical barring
Distinguishing Feature:
Scientific Name: Males have a prominent nuchal hump ("lionhead") on the forehead
Scientific Name: Females are smaller and more slender with a reduced or absent hump
Note: The nuchal hump becomes more pronounced with age and dominance, especially in males.
Scientific Name: Provide multiple caves and rocky shelters
Scientific Name: Female lays eggs inside a crevice; both parents guard the brood
Scientific Name: Eggs hatch in 3–5 days
Scientific Name: Fry become free-swimming in about 7 days
Scientific Name: Feed baby brine shrimp or powdered fry food
 
Care Requirements
Tank Size: Minimum 90 litres (24 gallons) for a pair
pH: 7.0–8.5
Hardness: Moderate to hard (8–20 dGH)
Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
Water Flow: Strong flow recommended
Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
Décor: Rocky caves, crevices, and strong water current areas
Filtration: High oxygenation and turnover are essential
Type: Omnivore
Preferred Foods:
High-quality pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily
Behavior & Tank Mates
Temperature Range: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
Spawning Method: Cave spawner
Breeding Conditions:
Conservation Status
IUCN Status: Not Evaluated
 
Temperament
Compatible Tank Mates:
Behavior Notes:
 
Notes
Environment: Fast-flowing rocky rivers with high oxygen content
Water Conditions: Clear to slightly turbid waters with moderate hardness