Blockhead Cichlid Care Guide
Steatocranus casuarius
Stocking Calculator
Bioload Score
4600
- Max Size
- 10.0 cm / 4.0"
- Temperature
- 24–28°C (76–82°F)
- pH Range
- 6.5 – 7.5
- Min Tank Size
- 114L (30 gal)
- Min Group Size
- Can be kept alone
- Tank Level
- Bottom
- Origin
- Africa
- Temperament
- Semi-Aggressive
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Breeding Difficulty
- Moderate
Diet
Omnivorous; requires a varied diet including high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and vegetable matter.
Community Compatibility
Can be suitable for a West African biotope or a community tank with other similarly sized and tempered fish. Avoid very small species that could be seen as prey and very aggressive species that could bully the Blockhead Cichlid.
Good to Know
The Blockhead Cichlid is known for its unique water column swimming behavior, often staying near the bottom and utilizing its pectoral fins for a "hovering" motion. Their distinctive appearance and interesting behavior make them a popular choice for cichlid enthusiasts.
Gender Differences
Males are larger and develop a pronounced nuchal hump (the "blockhead" for which they are named) as they mature. Females are smaller and do not develop such a prominent hump.
Stock Blockhead Cichlid in Your Tank
Use our free stocking calculator to see if Blockhead Cichlid fits your aquarium