Black widow frontosa

Black Widow Frontosa

Scientific name: Cyrtocara frontosa (Black Widow Variant)
Quick Facts
•Temperature: 24–27°C
•pH Level: 7.8–9.0 (Alkaline Water)
•Adult Size: 30–35 cm
•Minimum Tank Size: 350 Liters
•Temperament: Semi aggressive (Calm but Predatory)
•Tank Level: Bottom to middle
•Diet: Carnivore
•Care Level: Advanced
•Lifespan: 15+ years

Description

The Black Widow Frontosa is a rare and striking dark variant of Cyrtocara frontosa, prized for its deep black coloration combined with the classic Frontosa body shape and prominent head hump.
Originating from Lake Tanganyika cichlid bloodlines, this species is known for its calm, majestic swimming style and impressive adult size. Unlike many aggressive cichlids, Frontosas are generally slow andmoving and deliberate but will prey on smaller fish.As they mature, males develop a pronounced nuchal hump (forehead bump), making them a true showpiece in large African cichlid aquariums.

Compatibility

Suitable Tank Mates:
•Other large Tanganyika cichlids
•Larger peaceful African cichlids
•Similar-sized Frontosa

Avoid With:
•Small community fish
•Mbuna (overly aggressive rock-dwelling cichlids)
•Very small bottom dwellers

Best kept in species groups (1 male with multiple females) in large aquariums.

Feeding Guide

Feed:
•High-quality cichlid pellets
•Frozen krill
•Shrimp
•Silversides (occasionally)

Feed once daily. Avoid feeder fish to prevent disease.

Ideal Tank Setup
•350L+ large aquarium
•Strong filtration
•Sandy substrate
•Rock formations & caves
•High pH & stable alkaline water

Provide open swimming space and deep water style decor.