Burundi Frontosa 12cm

Burundi Frontosa 12cm

Frontosa is an incredibly popular African cichlid coming from Lake Tanganyika. These fish are often seen as a pinnacle species for African cichlid keepers due to their large growing size, simple yet contrasting colours, and the beauty they have in a species-only aquarium. Lake Tanganyika seems to be the hotspot for interest along with unique African cichlids and the frontosa are no exception to this.

There are multiple species all ranging in size and colours however one of the most popular of these species is the 6-barred Burundi frontosa because of its incredibly bold display of colours. These fish have a white base colour with exactly 6 thick jet-black stripes, they also have varying shades of blue that are found on all the fins and face. The darker blue shade tends to be isolated towards the face and tail fin whereas the remaining fins carry a bright powder blue. Frontosa also has a very different facial structure where dominant males develop a large nuchal hump which gives the frontosa an unmistakable look. Whilst frontosa are commonly sold, they are often quite small, and these slow-growing fish can take time to reach a display size. Because of this, these 12 cm frontosa make for a perfect starting point since they are almost half-grown to maximum size.

Being a tropical fish, it is best to keep the frontosa in temperatures between 24-28 degrees and they do require a fairly large aquarium due to their larger growing size. Breeding these fish is possible as males and females can be distinguished at this large size. Males have a large nuchal hump along with longer fins when compared to females. Frontosa are mouth brooders meaning that they will incubate the eggs in their mouth and release them when the fry is developed.

Tank Recommendations for your Burundi Frontosa

Frontosa Burundi gets to a maximum size of around 30 cm with females staying slightly smaller, they are considered to be semi-aggressive and can be kept with other tank mates however it is most common to see frontosa in a minimalistic species-only aquarium which truly showcases their beauty. Along with their size, frontosa can be territorial as well but should be kept in a group of 5 or more individuals which means they will need a tank that is at least 800 litres.

In terms of the aqua-scape, it is common practice to have a sandy substrate and minimalistic hard-scape materials. The ideal materials to use would be crushed aragonite sand, seriously stone, or Texas holy rock as these elevate the PH which is best for the frontosa. These fish will make short work of plants so they should also be avoided.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Because of their semi-aggressive and territorial behaviour, it is recommended to keep them in a species-only aquarium. They can however be kept with African cichlids of similar behaviour.

Usually Compatible

Malawi Peacocks and larger growing Tanganyikan cichlids.

Sometime Compatible

Medium-sized African cichlids such as lemon cichlids or julidochromis.

Rarely Compatible

Nano african cichlids such as shell dwellers and non-species.

Feeding your Frontosa Burundi

The frontosa is a fairly easy fish to feed as they readily take to aquarium foods. Because of their primarily herbivore-based diet in the wild, it is best to use a foot that is high in spirulina content and green matter. This can be supplemented with blanched veggies and feeding can be done at any time of the day.