Fin's Fish Guide
The African blockhead (Steatocranus casuarius) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The lionhead cichlid is a cichlid from the rapids of the Congo River in Central Africa. The species has a stocky, brown-grey body and develops, especially in males, a conspicuous fatty hump on the forehead, to which the name refers. It reaches about 10 cm. With a reduced swim bladder the fish moves in hops over the bottom, an adaptation to the fast-flowing water. The diet consists mainly of algae. The species is a pair-bonding cave spawner and is popular in the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African blockhead?
The African blockhead has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Striking fatty hump on the forehead; reduced swim bladder, moves in hops over the bottom; pair-forming cave brooder.
Where does the African blockhead live?
The African blockhead lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Rapids of the Congo River in Central Africa.
How big does the African blockhead get?
The African blockhead grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the African blockhead dangerous to humans?
No, the African blockhead is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African blockhead edible?
The African blockhead is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Steatocranus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the African blockhead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African blockhead is one of 12,519 species in the app.