Fin's Fish Guide
The Lionhead cichlid (Steatocranus tinanti) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
Tinant's lionhead cichlid is a cichlid (Cichlidae) from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has an elongate body with a flattened belly and reduced swim bladder, adapted to life on the bottom of fast-flowing water; older males develop a fatty hump on the head. It is rheophilic and inhabits the rapids of the Congo and its tributaries, where it moves hopping over the rocky bottom. It feeds on growth, small invertebrates and detritus. It forms pairs and is a cave brooder. The species is popular with aquarists and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lionhead cichlid?
The Lionhead cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Reduced swim bladder for a life in rapids; male with a nuchal hump; cave brooder.
Where does the Lionhead cichlid live?
The Lionhead cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Congo basin in Central Africa; rapids and cataracts.
How big does the Lionhead cichlid get?
The Lionhead cichlid grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Lionhead cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Lionhead cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Lionhead cichlid edible?
The Lionhead cichlid is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Lionhead cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lionhead cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Lionhead cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lionhead cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.