Frontosa Cichlid (Cyphotilapia frontosa) is a advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 125 gallons and 75-82°F. A slow, stately Tanganyika cichlid with bold black bars and a pronounced forehead on males. It is long-lived and sensitive to poor water, so it suits experienced keepers with large tanks and very hard, alkaline water.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Cyphotilapia frontosa |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Lake Tanganyika, East Africa |
| Adult size | 12-14 in |
| Minimum tank | 125 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-82°F |
| pH | 7.8-9.0 |
| Temperament | Calm but a large predator of small fish |
| Social behavior | Group in a large tank |
| Swim level | Mid to bottom |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Carnivore: large pellets, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 15-25 years |
Quick tips
- Plan for a 125-gallon or larger tank and a group.
- Keep water hard, alkaline and very clean.
- Avoid overfeeding; digestive problems are common.
San Diego water
Naturally suited to San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water once it is dechlorinated (the city uses chloramine, so use a conditioner that handles it). Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi