Fin's Fish Guide
The Lionhead cichlid (Steatocranus gibbiceps) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The lionhead cichlid is a cichlid from the fast-flowing rapids of the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 10 cm and has an elongate body, an enlarged fatty hump on the forehead in adult males and a reduced swim bladder, adapted to life on the bottom of turbulent water. As a bottom-dweller it shelters among rocks and grazes aufwuchs and small invertebrates. It is a cave-brooder that guards its eggs and young. The fish appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lionhead cichlid?
The Lionhead cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Fatty hump on the forehead and a reduced swim bladder; cave-brooding dweller of flowing water
Where does the Lionhead cichlid live?
The Lionhead cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Congo basin
How big does the Lionhead cichlid get?
The Lionhead cichlid grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Lionhead cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Lionhead cichlid is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Lionhead cichlid edible?
The Lionhead cichlid is not usually eaten.
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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 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.