Buffalohead Cichlid

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingAttentive tank care

  Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment8–12 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Swim bladder disorder

The Buffalohead (Steatocranus casuarius) lives in the rapids of the lower Congo River and reaches about 10 to 12 cm, with males noticeably larger and carrying a prominent nuchal hump. Life in fast water has left it with a reduced swim bladder, so it does not hover in mid-water like most fish; it rests on the bottom and moves in short hops, which is normal behaviour and not a sign of illness. Give a pair 120 litres or more at 24-28C, pH 6.5 to 8.0, with good water movement, a rocky bottom and several caves. Feed sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, mysis and vegetable matter. It is a cave-spawning, biparental cichlid whose pairs stay together, and it is calm and inquisitive by cichlid standards, recognising its keeper and investigating anything new in the tank. Territory is a floor-level matter, so it combines well with mid-water and surface fish and less well with other bottom-dwellers. Give it flow: a still, warm, low-oxygen tank suits it poorly and shortens its life.

• How active is a Buffalohead Cichlid?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Buffalohead Cichlid need?

  Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• What tank size does a Buffalohead Cichlid need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Buffalohead Cichlid a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Buffalohead Cichlid live?

  8–12 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Buffalohead Cichlid?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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