Frontosa Cichlid and Similar Species

Cyphotilapia gibberosa

Cyphotilapia gibberosa

Key differences: Historically, C. gibberosa was considered a synonym or a geographical variant of C. frontosa. However, recent taxonomic revisions recognize C. gibberosa as a distinct species. Key differentiating features are subtle and often relate to meristic counts (e.g., fin ray counts, scale counts), body proportions, and specific coloration patterns tied to their distinct geographical distribution within Lake Tanganyika. C. gibberosa generally has a more robust body and a slightly different head profile, and often exhibits more intense blue coloration, particularly in the 'Blue Zaire' variants.