Buffalohead Cichlid (Steatocranus casuarius)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameSteatocranus casuarius

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asLionhead Cichlid, Blockhead, Humphead Cichlid, African Blockhead

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

DietOmnivore

Adult size4.5 in

Minimum tank size30 gallons

Water parametersTemp 75-82°F, pH 6.5-7.8, GH 5-15 dGH

Appearance

Stocky grey-brown rheophilic cichlid with a reduced swim bladder that makes it hop along the bottom; mature males develop a prominent rounded cranial hump (the buffalo head).

Difficulty and care for the Buffalohead Cichlid

Moderate

Origin and habitat

DR Congo (Congo River rapids)

Keeper notes

A bottom-hugging cave spawner; territorial near its cave but otherwise reserved. Males spar over caves so provide several rock retreats.

Log Buffalohead Cichlid in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Buffalohead Cichlid alongside everything else in your reef.

Download Reef Trak See the full app