Lionhead

by David Midgley - Steatocranus casuarius hales from West Africa where it lives in fast flowing rivers near or even in rapids. The genus name refers to Steato (fats or lipids) and cranus (head), literally fat head - this pertains to the fatty lump that this species develops on the forehead.

The species can be intolerant and belligerant for its size and will chase and attack other bottom dwelling fish which venture into it’s large territories. The picture to the right is a juvenile (6cm) and when mature the species will reach lengths of 12cm in males. With maturity the “hump” is also much more pronounced and can hang foreward over the head. Sexing these fish is difficult although males grow somewhat larger and have more developed “humps”.

Species Name: Steatocranus casuarius
Common Name(s):Lionhead, Blockhead, Lumphead
Country of Origin: Riverine West Africa
Diet: Micro-preditor
Water Chemistry: pH 6.0 - 7.5, kH not critical
Temperature: 24 - 28 C

Like other west african species such as Pelvicachromis sp. S. casuarius is a cave spawner and a flower pot or coconut shell is ideal for spawning purposes. As this species can be quite aggressive when spawning, the minmum tank size would have to be at least 150L, although surface area at the base of the tank is far more important than depth or volume of the water itself. As usual if breeding is intended, the breeder should attempt to locate good quality stock from unrelated dealers.

The species has a poorly developed swim bladder, a result of a lifestyle in the rapids. In a tank setting the species can often be found “sitting” on the gravel or “perched” on a leaf, as shown above. The species also has a high oxygen requirment and can be often seen gasping. Thus filter outlets should be placed above the water line to increase aeration and or additional water movement provided by a powerhead or airstone.

The species like other west african cichlids does not harm plants and the extra cover they provide gives this shy species plenty of hiding places. The lionhead is an unfussy eater taking all manor of prepared, frozen or live foods. Despite its somewhat drap colouration, the species has real character and its unusual shape appeals to many… definately worth a look.