Slender Lionhead (Steatocranus tinanti) Care Guide
Steatocranus tinanti is a slender, elongated rheophilic cichlid from the Congo rapids, a bottom-dwelling cave spawner needing strong, oxygenated current.
Overview
Steatocranus tinanti is a more elongated and slender member of the genus than the Buffalohead, with a smaller forehead hump. It is a rheophilic cichlid of the Congo rapids that perches and hops along the substrate, an adaptation linked to a reduced swim bladder typical of the genus.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Steatocranus
- Scientific name: Steatocranus tinanti
Habitat
According to FishBase, the species inhabits Pool Malebo (Stanley Pool) and the lower Congo River in the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is a demersal, rheophilic freshwater fish of fast-flowing, well-oxygenated rocky stretches.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 150 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Water flow: high, well oxygenated
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Diet
The species is an omnivore with a FishBase trophic level of about 3.3. In the aquarium it accepts varied prepared foods alongside small frozen invertebrates, fed twice daily.
Compatibility
This semi-aggressive bottom-dweller suits a Congo rapids setup with strong flow and abundant rockwork. Suitable companions include Congo tetras and Synodontis nigriventris. It should be kept away from Rift Lake mbuna and hard-water cichlids, and it is not safe with delicate plants.
Breeding
Steatocranus tinanti is a pair-bonding cave spawner. FishBase reports that the female lays up to about 100 eggs in the male's cave, and both parents care for the young.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 16 February 2009).