Buffalo Head Cichlid (Steatocranus casuarius) CareSheet

The Buffalo Head Cichlid, also known as the Lionhead or Blockhead Cichlid, is a species of cichlid that originated in Africa's Congo River basin. They live in the fast-moving Congo River and have evolved a "jerky" swimming technique similar to that of a goby. The Buffalo Head is a tranquil cichlid that grows to be around 4 inches long. They come in black, blue, gray, and tan hues, and the male of this species develops a big hump on his head as he gets older.

An aquarium of at least 30 gallons with enough of rocks for territories and a medium-sized gravel filled with hardy plants is recommended for the Buffalo Head Cichlid. They may grow in a broad variety of pH conditions, although a neutral pH of 7.0 is optimum. If allowed enough room for territories and breeding, Buffalo Head Cichlids are normally passive fish.

When attempting to breed the Buffalo Head Cichlid, it is ideal to place three or four individuals in an aquarium with lots of pebbles and water movement. With time, a couple will emerge, secluding themselves and becoming hostile toward the other members of the group. It is recommended to remove the other Buffalo Heads from the tank unless the aquarium is quite huge.

The couple will excavate a burrow behind a rock where they will spawn when they reach sexual maturity of 2 to 3 inches. The fry will hatch after approximately a week and will be free-swimming after a few days. Crushed flake food and young brine shrimp should be fed to the fry. Buffalo Head Cichlids are fantastic parents who will look after their fry until their next brood arrives. Cichlid partners bond for life, and it's uncommon for one of them to create a new pair if the other dies.

Feed a mix of meaty and vegetable-based meals to the Buffalo Head Cichlid. Their diet should consist mostly of frozen brine and mysis shrimp, as well as a high-quality flake and tablet meal including vegetable matter.

Requirements for keeping Steatocranus casuarius

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Tank Conditions: 72-82°F; pH 6.0-8.0
Max. Size In Aquarium: Up to 4"
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: West Africa

Feeding Buffalo Head Cichlids