Frontosa Cichlid — Juvenile

Scientific Name: Cyphotilapia frontosa

The Frontosa Cichlid is an iconic Lake Tanganyika species recognized by its bold black-and-white vertical bands, blue-toned fins, large adult body, and the prominent forehead hump that develops with maturity. Frontosas are slow-growing, long-lived African cichlids that become considerably larger and more impressive as they mature.

IMPORTANT — JUVENILE FISH: The Frontosa offered in this listing is approximately 1–1.5 inches and is a young juvenile. Juvenile Frontosas do not have the massive body size or pronounced forehead hump seen on mature adults. Their coloration, body shape, fins, and forehead will continue developing substantially as they grow. Aqua Huna specifically supplies this fish at 1–1.5".

Care Level: Moderate–Advanced
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Predatory
Purchase Size: Approximately 1–1.5 inches — JUVENILE
Adult Size: Approximately 10 inches, with some aquarium specimens reported larger
Minimum Tank Size: Large long-term aquarium required; approximately 200+ gallons is recommended for a proper adult group
Temperature: 73–81°F
pH: 8.0–9.0
Hardness: 10–25 dGH
Diet: Carnivore / Generalized Predator
Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa
Recommended Group Size: At least 5, with larger groups preferred when adequate adult space is available.

Recommended Setup: Frontosas require exceptionally clean, stable water and should be kept in a mature aquarium. Provide a sand substrate with large smooth rocks, caves and sheltered areas while preserving substantial open swimming space. They require hard, alkaline Lake Tanganyika conditions and strong biological filtration, but excessive water current should be avoided.

Frontosas naturally prey on smaller fish, invertebrates and mollusks. In captivity, offer quality carnivorous cichlid pellets along with foods such as shrimp, krill, mysis and similar appropriately sized foods. Small feeder fish are unnecessary and can introduce disease or parasites.

Please Note: You are purchasing a juvenile Frontosa approximately 1–1.5 inches in size. The fish you receive will be significantly smaller and less developed than a mature adult Frontosa. Juveniles cannot be reliably sexed, and the characteristic forehead hump becomes more pronounced as the fish matures. Individual coloration, banding and markings may vary.

All livestock from Felipe’s Fish is carefully selected and prepared for safe transport. Please review our shipping and Live Arrival Guarantee policies before ordering.