What is frontosa?

Frontosa, also known as Cyphotilapia frontosa, is a species of freshwater cichlid native to the rocky shores of Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. They are known for their distinct appearance, with a large frontal hump on their head that develops as they age.

Frontosa are popular aquarium fish due to their striking appearance and unique behaviors. They are typically peaceful and can be kept in community tanks with other non-aggressive species of similar size. However, they can be territorial towards their own kind, especially when breeding or establishing dominance within a group.

In the wild, frontosa are carnivorous and feed on small fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates. In captivity, they can be fed a diet of high-quality pellets, frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and krill.

Frontosa are known to be relatively easy to care for, as long as their water conditions are kept stable and clean. They prefer warm water temperatures between 75-82°F and a pH of 7.5-9.0. They also require plenty of hiding places and rocks in their tank to mimic their natural habitat.

With proper care, frontosa can live up to 15-20 years in captivity. They are a fascinating species to observe and can make a beautiful addition to a large, well-maintained aquarium.