Cyphotilapia frontosa

Family: Cichlidae

Cyphotilapia frontosa — a Cichlidae from Africa. Reaches 26.2–38.5 cm; keep at 24–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6.5–8
GH hardness
5–19 dGH
Adult length
26.2–38.5 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Middle of the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding
Origin
Africa

Species overview

Cyphotilapia frontosa is a Cichlidae from Africa. In the wild it prefers lakes and slow rivers with structure; in the aquarium it stays varies by species. Plan on 26.2–38.5 cm of adult fish at 24–28 °C. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.

Native biotope

Habitat
Lakes and slow rivers with structure
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Sand with rock piles
Hardscape
Stones, caves and broken lines of sight
Plants
Hardy species that tolerate digging

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Pairs or singles with defined territory
Diet
Omnivore to carnivore; quality prepared foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Often striking; males larger and brighter
Breeding method
Substrate or cave spawner with parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Cyphotilapia frontosa easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding. Pairs or singles with defined territory.

What temperature and water chemistry does Cyphotilapia frontosa need?

Aim for 24–28 °C. Heater required for stable tropical warmth; 24–28 °C curated husbandry range.

How big does Cyphotilapia frontosa get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 26.2–38.5 cm; it is middle of the water column. Plan for at least 500 litres.

What does Cyphotilapia frontosa eat?

Omnivore to carnivore; quality prepared foods. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Cyphotilapia frontosa live with other fish?

Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Cyphotilapia frontosa come from?

Its home waters are Africa — lakes and slow rivers with structure, with still to gentle current.

Does Cyphotilapia frontosa jump?

Jumping is not a known issue; cover the tank anyway during water changes.

How does Cyphotilapia frontosa breed?

Substrate or cave spawner with parental care. Often striking; males larger and brighter.