Blockhead Cichlid

Care at a glance

Overview

These are bottom-oriented fish that hop along the substrate rather than swim freely, since that shrunken swim bladder keeps them low. Give a pair a tank of around 95 liters with caves; they're mostly peaceful but get territorial when breeding. Keep them warm in the mid to high 20s C with a near-neutral pH. Feed sinking pellets, frozen foods, and the occasional vegetable matter.

In the wild

Blockhead cichlids live in the fast, rocky rapids of the Congo River in Central Africa, tucked into caves and crevices among the stones. The water is warm and runs from slightly acidic to neutral. Recreate that with a rocky tank full of caves, plenty of flow, and good oxygenation.

Good to know

A member of the family Cichlidae, it reaches about 12 cm, with males developing the large forehead hump that gives the fish its name. It has a reduced swim bladder, an adaptation for staying down on the bottom in current. The IUCN lists it as Least Concern.

Did you know

Both parents are dedicated caregivers. They lay eggs inside a cave, take turns fanning fresh water over them, and then keep guarding and herding the fry well after hatching, which is more hands-on parenting than you'd expect from a fish this size.

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