Common Name: Burundi Frontosa Cichlid
Scientific Name: Cyphotilapia frontosa
Other Names: Frontosa, Humphead Cichlid
The Burundi Frontosa Cichlid is a large, beautiful freshwater fish that is highly sought after by many aquarium enthusiasts. They have a unique body shape, with a high forehead and a hump that grows as the fish matures. Their coloration is primarily blue and black with a white belly, and their fins are adorned with white and blue stripes. They can reach up to 16 inches in length and weigh up to 10 pounds.
Habitat and Distribution:
The Burundi Frontosa Cichlid is native to the African Great Lakes region, specifically Lake Tanganyika. They are found in deep, rocky habitats where they can hide and feel safe. These fish are known to inhabit both the shallow and deep waters of the lake.
Size and Lifespan:
The Burundi Frontosa Cichlid can grow up to 16 inches in length and live up to 15 years in captivity with proper care.
Diet and Behavior:
In the wild, the Burundi Frontosa Cichlid feeds primarily on small fish and invertebrates. In captivity, they should be fed a diet of high-quality pellets, flakes, and frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and krill. They are not picky eaters and will consume almost any type of food.
These fish are generally peaceful and can be kept in a community aquarium with other peaceful fish. However, they can become aggressive towards other cichlids or fish that are smaller in size than them. They are also known to be territorial, so it's important to provide them with plenty of hiding spots in the aquarium.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Burundi Frontosa Cichlids can be challenging, and they may not breed in captivity without proper conditions. Males can be distinguished from females by their larger size, prominent hump on the head, and more intense coloration.
The female will lay her eggs on a flat surface, and the male will fertilize them. The eggs will hatch in about three days, and the fry will be free-swimming after six to seven days.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
The Burundi Frontosa Cichlid requires a large aquarium of at least 125 gallons or more, with plenty of hiding spots, caves, and rocks. The water should be kept at a temperature between 75-80°F, with a pH range of 7.8-8.6 and a hardness of 10-20 dGH.
They prefer dim lighting and a gentle water flow. A sand substrate is recommended as it allows them to sift through the sand for food.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Burundi Frontosa Cichlids can be kept with other peaceful fish that are similar in size, such as other African cichlids or catfish. They should not be kept with smaller, more timid fish that may become prey or food.
Difficulty Level:
The Burundi Frontosa Cichlid is considered to be moderately difficult to care for and should only be kept by experienced aquarists.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-80°F
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pH: 7.8-8.6
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General Hardness (GH): 10-20 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 15-20 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: < 40 ppm
