Fin's Fish Guide
The Buffalohead cichlid (Steatocranus irvinei) is a fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
Irvine's buffalohead cichlid is an African cichlid (Cichlidae) from West Africa. The species has an elongate body and, in adult males, a conspicuous fatty hump on the forehead. It inhabits fast-flowing river stretches with a rocky bottom and, owing to its reduced swim bladder, moves over the bottom in hops. It shelters in crevices among the stones and is a cave brooder that guards the young attentively. It grazes growth and snaps up small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Buffalohead cichlid?
The Buffalohead cichlid is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Fatty hump on the forehead and a reduced swim bladder; hops over the bottom, cave brooder.
Where does the Buffalohead cichlid live?
The Buffalohead cichlid is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. West Africa; fast-flowing river sections with a rocky bottom.
How big does the Buffalohead cichlid get?
The Buffalohead cichlid grows to a maximum of about 13 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Buffalohead cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Buffalohead cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Buffalohead cichlid edible?
The Buffalohead cichlid is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Steatocranus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Buffalohead cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Buffalohead cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.