Lionhead Cichlid (Steatocranus casuarius) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 40 gallons and 73-79°F. A stocky, bottom-hugging Congo cichlid with a bump on the forehead. It lacks a normal swim bladder, so it hops across the bottom, and it likes rocks, caves and fast water flow.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Steatocranus casuarius |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Congo River, Africa |
| Adult size | 4-5 in |
| Minimum tank | 40 gallons |
| Temperature | 73-79°F |
| pH | 6.5-7.8 |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive, territorial |
| Social behavior | Pair or solitary |
| Swim level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: sinking cichlid pellets, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 8-10 years |
Quick tips
- Provide caves and rockwork.
- Use moderate to strong current.
- Keep with similar-sized, sturdy fish; it guards its cave.
San Diego water
Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. 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